St Albans Life Magazine March 2013

ST ALBANS LIFE

ST ALBANS LIFE W I T H D E S I R A B L E A R E A S A C R O S S B E A U T I F U L H E RT F O R D S H I R E ISSUE 78

MARCH 2013

w w w. t h e l i f e m a g a z i n e s . c o m

BAYVIEW HOUSE

A MOST PRESTIGIOUS COLLECTION OF JUST 8 HIGHLY SPECIFIED 2 & 3 BEDROOM LUXURY APARTMENTS & PENTHOUSES NESTLED IN THE LEAFY SUBURB OF ENFIELD

ST ALBANS FILM FESTIVAL

WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM

THE HISTORY OF LUTON HOO

TOMOKA SPIRITS BOUTIQUE BONHAMS CLASSIC CAR AUCTION

THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE MARCH 2013

LOCAL LIFE | HISTORY | EVENTS | BEAUTY | HOME & GARDEN | PROPERTY

An Advertisement Feature By Thomas Sanderson

Welcome to our March issue Gallery Rouge has firmly established itself as an art destination with a difference.

Instantly recognisable for the red exterior, the outstanding gallery in St Albans has developed an enviable reputation for sourcing outstanding original artwork from some of the UK’s leading talent, as well as introducing new work from international renowned artists.

For a city without a cinema, it would seem like an impossible feat to host a three-day film festival, but that’s exactly what happened in St Albans in the second weekend of March. Inspired by the work of former local resident, the late legendary filmmaker Stanley Kubrick, local actress and casting director Leoni Kibbey came up with the idea last summer to host a film festival in St Albans.

“I have worked in film all my life; it’s my big passion. And having taking part in other film festivals around the world, I thought it was about time there was one in my home town.”

Over the years Luton Hoo has counted many heads of state and members of royalty among its visitors including Queen Mary, Edward VII and Lord Mountbatten. In 1947, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh spent part of their honeymoon in one of the mansion’s vast state bedrooms, and returned to celebrate future wedding anniversaries.

A shade more stylish

Just before Christmas a little boutique store opened up in Christopher Place in St. Albans. A little like a sweet shop for adults, Tomoka Spirits Boutique specialises in fine spirits and champagne. The owners of the shop, Jass, Roberto and Tim, invited us down to sample their wares and find out just what fine GET THIS spirits and champagne are all about.

EDITION ONLINE

This gives you just a small taste of exciting events and articles featured in this month’s issue...

Transform your conservatory for less this spring with 3 for 2 on made to measure conservatory blinds, exclusively by Thomas Sanderson.

C

Faye Manning Editor

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.

0844 800 8439 www.lifemagazines.com

Editor Faye Manning Editor Assistant Katie Miller Sub Editor Alex Lux Fashion Editor Hazel Englander Education Development Manager Corinne Sugar Design & Production Toni Perry Sales James Marshall Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

onservatory blinds aren’t just about making your room look good.

They also do a very practical job in the conservatory environment where outside temperature can dramatically affect the room. With spring around the corner it’s the time to sit back and take pleasure in the new life appearing in your garden, and your conservatory is the perfect place in which to enjoy your green space.

Thomas Sanderson provide a whole host of solar reflective fabrics, in a range of colours and styles, to help keep you and your conservatory cool as the summer months draw closer. Unique SolarTex coatings cleverly reflect the sun’s rays keeping the room cool and comfortable, and the unique shape and structure of a pleated blind will fit perfectly into every size and shape of window or door panel.

Many conservatory owners make the mistake of leaving their roof panels bare, but this is where exposure to the sun can be at its greatest. With coordinating roof and window blinds available you can transform your entire conservatory and create a blissfully cool room this spring.

With 20 years experience in the field, Thomas Sanderson has helped thousands of people transform their conservatories into comfortable, stylish spaces. Each Thomas Sanderson blind is individually designed, handcrafted and installed to fit precisely into the window frame, so you have the flexibility to open your windows even when the blinds are down.

Reader Offer courtesy of Thomas Sanderson Transform your conservatory for less this spring for every 2 blinds you choose, get a third absolutely FREE!* To request a FREE brochure or book a FREE design consultation call 0800 220 603 and quote reference D483B www.tsoffer.co.uk *Limited period only. Terms and conditions apply.

To request a FREE brochure or book a FREE design consultation call

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F E AT U R E

Easter Fun at Mr Simms

Olde Sweet Shoppe Visiting Mr Simms Sweet Shoppe at No 5 French Row, St Albans is just like travelling back in time to a yesteryear when traditional sweet shops were packed with jars of colourful Bon Bons and more than 500 other varieties of sweets, all designed to delight customers, young and old.

special treat at Mr Simms. The store has a large glass counter area packed with all the traditional Pick ‘N’ Mix favourites including Love Hearts and Cola Bottles, while behind the counter, the entire wall is lined with over 250 jars of more traditional sweets ranging from Cherry Chrystals to Barley Twists.

Uniquely located opposite the entrance to the famous tower and just a stones throw from the Cathedral, Mr Simms is filled to overflowing with every conceivable variety of fudge, sweets, lollipops, liquorice, candy sticks and chocolates you could ever imagine possible in a single store.

The store also stocks a vast array of packaged sweets including Refreshers, Fry’s Chocolate Cream bars and Fizzwizz, which have been almost impossible to find by consumers at the ‘Corner Shop’ in recent years.

Those of you who always remember the ‘Woolies’ Pick ‘N’ Mix counter are in for a

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For those of you with diabetic issues, Mr Simms also stocks an extensive range of chocolate bars, confectionary, liquorice, jelly fruits together with a large selection of gluten-free sweets.

Mr Simms has only been opened a short while but has already attracted thousands of loyal customers who return again and again for their particular favourites and fills a consumer need following the recent closure of the Thorntons St Albans branch nearby.

In order to experience the retro sweet range and personal service that customers receive when shopping at Mr Simms, they are offering readers a 10% discount off all orders over £5 on Mondays.

For more information about Mr Simms Olde Sweet Shoppe, 5 French Row, St Albans call 01727 568568

HEAD

EFFICIENT – 78.5mpg COMBINED

H EART

EXCITING – 120PS OF TURBOCHARGED POWER

TEST DRIVE THE NEW CIVIC 1.6 i-DTEC DIESEL WITH YOUR HEAD AND YOUR HEART BRAYLEY HONDA

St. Albans Hatfield Road, St Albans AL4 0LQ. Call: 01727 789 416 Hemel Hempstead Two Waters Road, Hemel Hempstead HP3 9BX. Call: 01442 353088 Enfield 660 Great Cambridge Road, Enfield EN1 3WX. Call: 0208 454 7700 Visit www.brayley-honda.co.uk Fuel consumption in mpg (l/100km): Urban 70.6 (4.0), Extra Urban 85.6 (3.3), Combined 78.5 (3.6), CO2 emissions: 94g/km.

Model shown: Civic 1.6 i-DTEC SE in Alabaster Silver metallic paint at £19,900 On The Road. All offers are correct at the time of going to print however Honda (UK) reserves the right to change this offer at any time. Models subject to availability. Written details available on request. The facilities offered are for the hire of goods. The scheme is available to recipients of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of the Disability Living Allowance or War Pensioners Mobility Supplement. To qualify for this offer you must be in receipt of a minimum of 12 months allowance. Valid for applications between 1 January 2013 to 31 March 2013 to Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London SE1 9HB. Promoter is Honda Motor Europe Limited trading as Honda (UK) at 470 London Road, Slough, Berkshire SL3 8QY.

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The Riding Club London launches new website with tailored concierge service The Riding Club London, an exclusive club with over 200 members specialising in providing access to the finest horses, venues and instruction in London, in the UK and internationally, has expanded into a full services members’ club with the launch of their brand new website and concierge service.

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he Riding Club London is pleased to offer both members and non-members from the international, corporate and private community a new bespoke service that gives access to exceptional equestrian experiences, from polo lessons at the finest clubs in England to a private box at Royal Ascot.

The Riding Club London offers unrivalled access and expertise to equestrian enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced, and even for those who prefer to watch from the ground. Working with leading experts, exclusive stables and the finest sporting events in the equine calendar, The Riding Club London arranges group trips, tailored experiences and instruction in all disciplines of riding, including dressage, jumping, polo and hunting.

Whether you would like to have a show jumping lesson with an Olympic rider, to experience a ridden safari through the African plains or even arrange to have an innovative corporate day out with a difference, The Riding Club London concierge team is on hand to assist in creating a perfect event for you and your guests, no matter how large or small. The team are also able to organise tours of the UK including highlights such as visits to Windsor Castle and the universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Whatever your equestrian enquiry, The Riding Club London concierge team will be able to provide the best service and solutions tailored to your needs.

With an experieces and dedicated team to take care of all arrangements, a typical corporate event could include a Polo Experience Day suitable for novices and advanced riders alike.

Whether you are looking for an introductory session, fast paced chukkas, or to sip champagne from the safety of the sidelines, polo is an exhilarating and fun team sport and is ideal for both client entertainment and team building alike. Such packages start at £350 plus VAT a day per person and include first class tuition at the finest polo schools at well as full hospitality option for your guests.

Allowing non-members to reap some of the benefits of the club through their new concierge service, The Riding Club London is

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evolving as an internationally recognized brand for equine sport, leisure, travel, fashion and high-end luxury.

The Riding Club London has three membership levels. New Rider for those looking to learn to ride in quality surroundings, available for £195 annually, and for £335 payable annually there is the option of either the Refresher Rider, for those returning to the sport or wanting to progress from beginner, and Riders Club, for those riders at intermediate or advanced level. The Riding Club London Concierge service is complimentary with membership but also offers high-end inspiration and solutions for private individuals, corporate clients and international visitors to the UK. Co-founder Ashley Parasram sums up The Riding Club London perfectly: ‘Rosie Ruck Kenne and I founded The Riding Club London in 2008 to offer equestrian enthusiasts with busy London life a service to access quality horses, venues and instruction as well as social events. We are very excited about the new phase of growth for The Riding Club London which is testament to the growing demand for equestrian sport and experiences from those residing in the Capital and international visitors alike. We are extremely to be expanding our product offering with the introduction of the concierge service which provides bespoke event planning and corporate hospitality for those who wish get the best from RCL and beyond.’

So for the ultimate ‘horsierge’ service contact The Riding Club London

The Riding Club London Tel: 020 3589 2385 Email: info@ridinglondon.com Web: www.ridinglondon.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/Riding_London Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ TheRidingClubLondon?fref=ts

Silver & Plated Ware Monday 18th March

A late nineteenth century Indian salver by Oomersi Mawji, Bhuj, Kutch.

Estimate ÂŁ500 - ÂŁ700

Antique & Modern Jewellery Thursday 11th April

A mid 20th century 18ct gold diamond three-stone ring, weighing 2.75cts.

Estimate ÂŁ3,500 - ÂŁ4,500

Auction of Vintage & Modern Wrist Watches Monday 15th April at 11am An 18k white gold automatic ladyÂ’s Blancpain LĂŠman Tourbillon Large Date wristwatch.

Estimate ÂŁ18,000 - ÂŁ26,000 A titanium hand wound gentlemanÂ’s Chopard L.U.C. Engine One Tourbillon wristwatch.

Estimate ÂŁ25,000 - ÂŁ35,000

Visit www.fellows.co.uk/life for a complimentary catalogue Fellows Auctioneers | 19 Augusta Street | Birmingham B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131 ! ! ) & % ! $ ' ""! % % ' ( !!# ( & %# % ( ! ! (

F E AT U R E

THE HISTORY OF

LUTON HOO

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ver the years Luton Hoo has counted many heads of state and members of royalty among its visitors including Queen Mary, Edward VII and Lord Mountbatten. In 1947, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh spent part of their honeymoon in one of the mansion’s vast state bedrooms, and returned to celebrate future wedding anniversaries.

There has been a house on the present site of Luton Hoo since at least 1601 when Robert Napier bought the estate. Today’s mansion

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house dates from the late 18th century when it was the seat of the 3rd Earl of Bute, then Prime Minister to George III. The famous landscape designer, Capability Brown, was engaged to redesign the surrounding parkland and gardens which now extend to 1,065 acres.

In 1903 Luton Hoo was bought by Sir Julius Wernher, a leading diamond dealer who commissioned Charles Mewes and Arthur Davis, the architects of the Ritz Hotel in London, to redesign the interior of Luton Hoo in a lavish Edwardian ‘Belle Époque’ style.

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After the death of Sir Julius, Harold Wernher inherited the estate from his father.

During the Second World War, the estate and mansion house was commissioned

by Eastern Command and played an important role in wartime operations testing tanks before they were taken off to depots for war service.

who won The Derby in 1966.

Sir Harold died in 1973 followed by Lady Zia in 1977 with the estate passing to their elder grandson, Nicholas Phillips, who together with his wife developed the living accommodation into facilities for corporate functions and filming, to support the maintenance of the art collection.

On 26th June 1948, Sir Harold Wernher and his wife Lady Zia, Countess Anastasia Mikhailovna de Torby, hosted a memorable visit by Sir Winston Churchill when 110,000 people gathered to hear him address the crowd and thank them for their support during the Second World War.

The house has been a very popular location with television and film makers, being used for films such as Four Weddings and a Funeral, Enigma, Eyes Wide Shut, Inspector Morse, Nicholas Nickleby, Vanity Fair and Bleak House to name but a few.

Sir Harold and Lady Zia decided to exhibit Sir Julius’s art collection within the house in 1951 including several items of the now famous Fabergé collection. They also bred several well known race horses including Brown Jack, who won twenty five races in his ten year racing career and Charlottown,

Following Nicholas Phillips’ death in 1991 the estate was put up for sale in 1997 and was finally purchased by Elite Hotels in 1999. The Hotel opened in October 2007 following an investment of more than £60 million and a painstaking restoration programme.

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F E AT U R E

004 FERRARI ENZO BERLINETTA 2 COACHWORK BY PININFARINA ESTIMATE £800,000-900,000

BONHAMS CLASSIC CAR AUCTION 29TH APRIL 2013, RAF MUSEUM, HENDON, LONDON NW4

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onhams, international auctioneers and valuers, return for their exclusive auction of Collectors’ Motor Cars and Automobilia at RAF Museum, Hendon, this April. The aircraft hangars and historic aviation displays provide a magnificent backdrop for the auction. There will be between 60 and 70 motor cars on show, with an expectation of approximately 1,000 registered bidders. And with the viewing audience, attendance will be high. The eager bidders and audience will be made up of a wide range of collectors and classic car enthusiasts, with a huge passion for motoring in style.

Rob Hubbard, Senior Specialist in the Bonhams Motor Car Department, said: “As a department we are very much looking forward to our annual sale at the RAF Museum in Hendon. It is an ideal location for a sale of collectors’ motor cars and it is always a sale that attracts a good crowd.

It attracts worldwide bidding, and last year’s sale in particular recorded some very strong prices for a number of cars, particularly for those with a strong provenance or cultural significance. It has been an excellent 2013 so far for the global department, with a record sale total at our Scottsdale auction in the US in January, more than €13 million realised at our Paris auction at the Grand Palais at the start of the month, and a

fantastic $3.75 million inaugural auction at Boca Raton in Florida at the weekend. We hope to continue this success, and thus the growth of the classic car market, with our Hendon sale.”

About Bonhams Bonhams, founded in 1793, is one of the world’s largest auctioneers of fine art and antiques. The present company was formed by the merger in November 2001 of Bonhams & Brooks and Phillips Son & Neale. In August 2002, the company acquired Butterfields, the principal firm of auctioneers on the West Coast of America. Today, Bonhams offers more sales than any of its rivals, through two major salerooms in London: New Bond Street and Knightsbridge; and a further three in the UK regions and Scotland. Sales are also held in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Carmel, New York and Connecticut in the USA; and Germany, France, Monaco, Hong Kong and Australia. Bonhams has a worldwide network of offices and regional representatives in 25 countries offering sales advice and valuation services in 60 specialist areas.

For a full listing of upcoming sales, plus details of Bonhams specialist departments go to www.bonhams.com.

1958 MERCEDES 300SL ROADSTER ESTIMATE £450,000-500,000

1952 JAGUAR XK120 ROADSTER ESTIMATE £60,000 – 70,000

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freelander 2

THe OnlY TOUGH CHOICe IS THe COlOUr FROM £22,495 OTR

Black and White Special Edition The Special Edition Freelander 2 Black & White stands out from the crowd. It has distinctive LED signature headlights, gloss Black exterior details and 17” alloy wheels. You can even opt for privacy glass at no extra cost. Bluetooth® connectivity, a rear load space cover and a new interior for 2013 make this a stylish and practical complement to an active lifestyle. The Freelander 2 comes with 2WD or 4WD capability, and six-speed manual or automatic transmission to suit your driving style.

And, it’s finished in two striking colours: Santorini Black and Fuji White. Now that’s a tough one.

Freelander 2 Black and White is subject to availability and at participating dealers.

Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Freelander 2 range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 32.5 (8.7) – 39.8 (7.1) Extra Urban 48.7 (5.8) – 52.3 (5.4) Combined 40.4 (7.0) – 47.1 (6.0) CO2 Emissions:185 – 158 g/km.

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EXCLUSIVE POGGENPOHL KITCHEN DESIGN CENTRES Ascot 65 High Street SL5 7HP T-01344 624 829 ☐ Barnet 22 Greenhill Parade, EN5 1EU T- 020 8441 3477 ☐ Guildford Willway House, Woodbridge Road GU1 1DX T-01483 566 444 ☐ London NW3 477-481 Finchley Road NW3 6HS T-020 7794 7801 London SE1 Newnham Terrace, Hercules Road SE1 7DR T-020 7902 5245 ☐ London SW1 107 Pimlico Road SW1W 8PH T-020 7730 7927 ☐ London SW3 172 Brompton Road SW3 1HW T-020 7838 0588 ☐ London SW11 190-192 Lavender Hill SW11 5TQ T-020 7223 2026 ☐ London W1 118 Wigmore Street W1U 3RT T-020 7224 1986 ☐ St Albans 100 London Road AL1 1NX T-01727 738111 ☐ Worthing 28 Teville Road BN11 1UG T-01903 210101

F E AT U R E

ST ALBANS FILM FESTIVAL For a city without a cinema, it would seem like an impossible feat to host a three-day film festival, but that’s exactly what happened in St Albans in the second weekend of March.

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nspired by the work of former local resident, the late legendary filmmaker Stanley Kubrick, local actress and casting director Leoni Kibbey came up with the idea last summer to host a film festival in St Albans. “I have worked in film all my life; it’s my big passion. And having taking part in other film festivals around the world, I thought it was about time there was one in my home town.”

Not having a cinema to screen any of the films didn’t prove to be an obstacle to Leoni’s ambitious projects. She approached a number of local venues, who were more than keen to host screenings, workshops and talks, but what really helped Leoni to make her film festival dream become a reality was the support of main sponsors, small

business specialist XLN Business Services, the University of Hertfordshire and Blanco.

Fast forward to the end of December and more than 400 films from movie makers in 30 countries had been entered into the seven different competition categories, including a mini student film category for 5-15-year-olds and a Made in St Albans, which was aimed at showcasing young local talent.

The programmes were printed by local print company Manson Group and St Albans District Council showed their support for the festival with the offer of a vacant shop on the high street, which acted as a box office and the nerve centre for the festival.

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F E AT U R E

CHRISTIANE KUBRICK PHOTOGRAPHER LEO CINICOLO

Hundreds of local residents – young and old – inspired by the London 2012 Games became festival makers in the run-up to the festival and throughout the weekend taking on a wide range of different responsibilities from allocating tickets to directing people to venues to videoing and blogging about events throughout the weekend.

The icing on the cake for the film festival was when Stanley Kubrick’s wife Christiane offered to officially open the film festival.

The three-day festival was held over the weekend of on March 8 and more than 2,000 local residents mingled with filmmakers from all over the world at screenings, workshops and talks in 22 venues all over the city, including the 15th century Clock Tower.

The festival had something for everyone; toddlers enjoyed daytime screenings and themed face painting at Waterstones; schoolage children took part in stop-frame animation workshops; and teenagers learnt how to make an amazing music video and enjoyed Saturday-night DJ sets at The Pioneer Club. Legendary stuntman Roy Scammell, who over his 60-year career in film, has been the stunt double for a number of James Bonds, Frank Sinatra and Michael Caine just to name a few.

The awards ceremony took place at Havana on Sunday night, hosted by Magic FM presenter and Martin Collins, and hundreds of filmmakers who had entered the short film competition took to the Red Carpet in the hope of taking home one of the beautifully handcrafted awards made by students at Sandringham School.

A French filmmaker, Fabrice Bracq, won the award for Best Short Film for his entry Time 2 Split, but there were some home-grown 16 MARCH2013

winners too. The short film competition runners up were Ben Jacobs and James Callas Ball from St Albans for their film Gracious Awakenings, and the winner of the Best Mini Student Film was Oscar Simmons, from Shenley, Hertfordshire, with his film Dog. Reflecting on the success of the festival, Mark Colman, owner of local luxury interiors and furniture-making company Sequoia Bespoke, said: “I have lived in St Albans for many years, and I have never seen the city have such a buzz about it. I have a great love of music and film, and was thrilled to see the new British music film Vinyl, open the festival.

“Another highlight was the live music at the Horn and the ‘make a film in two hours’ workshop, which my two young sons loved.”

Duncan Banks, local resident and sales director of XLN Business Services, the sponsor of the Best Documentary Film Award, said: “XLN is all about supporting the entrepreneurial spirit, usually small business owners, and helping people get their visions off the ground and turned into a reality. So we wanted to help this festival be a success too, and give many small and first time filmmakers the chance to show their creations to an audience and get on the first rung of the ladder.”

In common with XLN Business Services, Warren Bacci, prinicipal of Hertfordshire-based Top Hat Stage School and Top Talent Agency, said film festivals are a great way to find up-and-coming filmmakers and actors who may struggle to find a stage in which to display their talents if it wasn’t for the efforts of people like festival director Leoni.

Warren, who is opening his seventh Hertfordshire Top Hat

F E AT U R E

LEONI KIBBEY

Stage School in September, in Harpenden, applauded Leoni’s vision, which inspired them to get involved in the festival.

“We ran a workshop in the festival weekend, where children could learn how to get an agent and how to act in front of a camera. It was a great workshop and we had a lot of talented kids attend. There may also be some budding stars in there too.

“We also sponsored the prize for the Best Actor category, which was won by Kerensa York for her outstanding performance in short film Lines in the Sand.”

While the credits roll on the first-ever St Albans Film Festival, Leoni has already started work on the 2014 event.

“There appears to be no limit to the support from the local community for next year’s festival,” said Leoni. “I am really grateful to the sponsors of this year’s event; the film festival wouldn’t have been the success it was without their funding and support.

“I have already been approached by businesses who are keen to support next year’s festival, and I’d love to get more local companies involved.

“With the national press – both print and broadcast – coverage we received, local businesses who show their support will be able to shine in the film festival’s spotlight,” she added. “And I would love to make this event an annual event and for the St Albans Film Festival to be a leading international Film Festival in ten years time.”

STANLEY KUBRICK

THE WINNERS FILMS FOR KIDS (MADE BY A PROFESSIONAL) Judges special mention SKETCH – The Walker Twins Winner BAGGAGE – Dir. Peter Butler MUSIC VIDEO Judges special mention FELDSPAR – “THE FLAT & PAPER SKY”

Dir. Craig Heathcote Winner REGGIIMENTAL FEAT MATT HENSHAW

“STAND BY THE WINDOW” – Dir. Adam Awni DOCUMENTARY Judges special mention SKIN – Dir. Janina Vilsmaier Winner THE GUEST Dir. Kira De Hemmer Jeppeson STUDENT FILM Judges special mention DAWID AND DOMINIK Dir. Andrew Salamonczyk Winner ROCKET BOYS –Dir. James Button OVER-18’S Judges special mention PHONE SEX GRANDMA – Dir. Jack Truman Winner PRODIGAL SON - Dir. CJ SCUFFINS MAIN SHORT FILM Judges special mention GRACIOUS AWAKENINGS

Dir Ben Jacobs, starring James Callas Ball, St Albans Winner TIME 2 SPLIT - Dir. Fabrice Bracq BEST ACTOR Judges special mention Darren Kent - Sunny Boy (Main short) Winner Kerensa York - Lines in the Sand (Main Short) MINI STUDENT FILM AWARDS Best mini student film A DOG – Oscar Simmons, Shenley, Herts Best performance by an actor or actress Emily Horton-Harpin, St Albans

LOVE LETTER – Written, Produced Directed,

Edited and Performed by Emily Horton-Harpin Best Class entry

TRUTH OR DARE - Lydate J&I School, Kirklees, West Yorkshire

Golden Nugget award

KILPATRICK SNOWMAN Kilpatrick Primary School, a special needs school in West Dunbartonshire

Made in St Albans film award

THE DETECTIVE Jack and Ashley Campbell, Age 14, St Albans

And who knows – the City may even have a cinema by then…

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When only the best will do

Gallery Rouge has firmly established itself as an art destination with a difference. instantly recognisable for the red exterior, the gallery has developed an enviable reputation for sourcing outstanding original artwork from some of the UK’s leading talent, as well as introducing new work from international renowned artists.

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longside the superb collection of original works, Gallery Rouge continually strives to offer clients an impressive range of quality Limited Editions. These represent works from respected and recognised artists whose original paintings have appreciated in price and may thus be beyond ones budget. Limited Editions provide an attractive and affordable means of acquiring work from your favoured artist without having to break the bank.

Servicing an ever growing client base from Hertfordshire, the Home Counties, North and West London, the gallery prides itself on providing patrons with a truly flexible and tailored art buying experience. Gallery Consultants will work closely with you to ensure they help you find the right painting for the right space. Relaxed and knowledgeable, they’ll take the pressure out of searching, proactively working on your behalf.

What makes Gallery Rouge special?

Choice... with two independent studios, Gallery Rouge is not tied to one source or provider of artwork. Working with leading art representatives, agents and more commonly directly with artists ensures Gallery Rouge is able to showcase a wide and diverse collection from which to select.

Service... Buying artwork should be pleasurable and fun. The Gallery Consultants will help inform about artists and their background and 18 MARCH2013

identify a portfolio of work from which to select. Should you have difficulty visualising the work as it would display in your house, fear not. Artwork can be brought to your home for you to best appreciate and make your decision – a no fee, no obligation service truly geared to helping you.

Ambiance... Visiting a gallery can be a daunting experience. Gallery Rouge is warm and welcoming, and completely unpretentious. Enjoy browsing the artwork at your pace in a clean uncluttered space where the artwork is well hung and presented. Gallery members are always there to assist as and when you need them without undue pressure.

Flexibility... Whether it’s opening the gallery out of standard hours to cater for working families or visiting clients at home during the evening to showcase artwork, it is evident that the gallery is focused primarily on client needs. This extends to money matters too – the gallery offers flexible payment terms to ensure you don’t miss out on acquiring that special piece.

With a full calendar of artist attendances, exhibitions and focal events, Gallery Rouge are very much looking forward to helping more clients identify, select and secure wonderful artwork for their home or office space.

For those interested in learning more about Gallery Rouge and its fuller range of services, visit their website at www.galleryrouge.co.uk, or visit the galleries in either St Albans or Harpenden

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NIGEL COOKE

the cityscape collection Gallery Rouge was delighted to welcome Nigel Cooke to their St Albans gallery on Saturday March 16th for a solo exhibition of Nigel’s cityscape paintings. The strong collection included views of London, New York and Amsterdam.

The artist paints with a loose impressionistic approach, adopting a drip technique popularised by Jackson Pollock. Speaking of the event Nigel commented ‘It was great to come to St Albans and see my work wonderfully displayed and appreciated. It’s quite a humbling experience for an artist to be asked to create work for a solo show, but I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this experience and in helping collectors acquire my work’.

If you would like to see the fuller collection of available pieces, please contact Gallery Rouge St Albans on 01727 860401 or email at stalbans@galleryrouge.co.uk

For more information call St Albans Gallery on 01727 860401 or Harpenden Gallery on 01582 760332 email info@ galleryrouge.co.uk Nigel and Kuldip

www.galleryrouge.co.uk

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Three Perfect Locations

On Par Rates

F E AT U R E

Harrods launches luxury wedding planner service

‘Weddings by Harrods’

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ondon’s leading luxury store has launched a brand new service, Weddings by Harrods, a deluxe addition to Bespoke Events - Designed & Delivered by Harrods, a service specialising in custom-created occasions. Weddings by Harrods offers a complete bridal planning service, to ensure that every aspect of the wedding is executed with the style and elegance for which Harrods is renowned around the world. The team of wedding planners will see that each couple’s special day runs seamlessly, providing the bride and groom with peace of mind so that they can relax and enjoy the happiest day of their lives.

The beauty of this resource lies in the extensive range of departments and services available at Harrods, which provide everything required when organising a wedding, from stunning bespoke wedding dresses and tailored suits, to beautiful tiered wedding cakes and a team of beauty experts from Urban Retreat spa to ensure the bride enjoys the ultimate pampering in preparation for the day. Roja Dove haute parfumerie, Smythson stationery, Moyses Stevens Flowers and luxurious wedding gowns

by J Mendel are just some of the exclusive brands available to each couple through this service. Other departments include the Harrods Gift Bureau, the renowned Fine Jewellery Rooms and the store’s own range of elegant personalised stationery to use for invitations and

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place cards. Weddings by Harrods ensures the bride and groom have full use of these luxurious services and products wherever possible; making their wedding a truly unique and memorable day.

Each wedding consultant provides a personalised ‘handholding’ wedding package that is tailor-made to each couple.

Taking care of every element, the consultant will find the venue of their dreams, organise the showstopping design and catering with Bespoke Events and oversee all the finer details including favours for guests. Their passion and expertise does not just apply to the wedding day; the dedicated consultant will also organise the honeymoon in partnership with luxury travel specialist Abercrombie & Kent, ensuring that the newly-weds are whisked off on the most romantic of getaways.

Couples wishing to make an appointment can do so by contacting Weddings by Harrods on +44(0)20 7225 5805 or email bespokeevents@harrods.com.

Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7XL www.harrods.com

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120 Wigmore street, London, W1U 3Ls 509 Uxbridge Road, hatch end, Pinner, Middlesex hA5 4Js 77-79 Wycombe end, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire hP9 1LX telephone: 020 7486 3080 email: info@halcyon-interiors.co.uk | www.halcyon-interiors.co.uk

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Wild in Hertfordshire Africa has arrived in the countryside with the magical treatment of Decleor’s Madagascar Red Island Red Ritual offered at Hanbury Manor, a Marriott Hotel and Country Club.

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WORDS CHARLOTTE QUANTICK – SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR

he treatment is powered with fruit seeds, orange, apricots, argon and acai seed along with essential oils of Tonka bean, ylang ylang and vetiver sourced in Madagascar is a fair-trade product helping to improve the living and working conditions in the village of Marolaona.

The therapist will take you on a journey to evoke the senses and reveal a new stimulating skin.

On arrival to the spa at Hanbury Manor you will be asked to relax, take a drink before one of the specialist therapist lead you to your beauty room. The room instantly hits you with the sweet aroma of essential oils, calming music and dimmed lights.

The heated bed allows you to unwind and the treatment starts with a 30 minute exfoliation using a rich mixture of fruit powders with argan, lemon, orange and apricot; spices of ginger and cinnamon; plant oils with grape, olive, apricot and fruit seeds. The brush like movement of the therapist hands stimulates the skin while toning and flaking away dead skin cells. The treatment polishes your skin leaving it in supreme condition before moving onto the next stage.

After shedding the seeds and remaining skin with a shower, a 30 minute cocooning treatment consisting of gentle effleurage massage combing the expert hand of the beautician, the acacia wood massage instrument and aromatic balms.

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Again the therapist works in sections smoothing on the balm that slides on; melting into the new skin like butter. A ritualised movement of the massage techniques are worked on through the treatment with areas of the body targeted that need extra attention by running the wooden massage over the back up the spin and into the pressure points often creating a snake-like movement to allow the beautician to pin point the areas and attend to them relieving the tense, stressed muscles.

You will be awakened with a sense of vitality and soft, silky, rejuvenated skin.

If you are tempted by the wild please contact Hanbury Manor’s Health Club on: 01920 885 010 for further information.

The Red Island Ritual is perfect for preholiday preparation skin, promotion of relaxation if you are stressed and chasing away fatigue available Monday to Thursday for £69.00; Friday and Saturday for £74.00 Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Pre-booking required.

Hanbury Manor, a Marriott Hotel & Country Club Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0SD; Telephone: 01920 487 722; MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk

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loc al life

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AT THE GROVE

Romantic escapes

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he Grove, London’s Country Estate, is the perfect haven for a romantic escape this spring as its 300 acres of woodland and formal gardens burst into life and colour. Explore the woodland trails, picturesque lake, tranquil canal and stunning bluebell meadow by bike or on foot, or take in the beauty of the formal gardens in a quiet stroll hand in hand.

Take time to relax and unwind over lunch or afternoon tea in The Library or one of the four elegant Lounges in the mansion, overlooking the enchanting formal gardens through floor-to- ceiling

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French windows. With stunning original fireplaces and sumptuous sofas on which to recline, these historic rooms are just the place to while away time over a game of scrabble or the day’s newspaper; breakfast, light meals and snacks are served daily, while Afternoon Tea is served exclusively from 3.00pm-5.00pm.

To dine is an experience in itself at The Grove, with three restaurants to choose from, each unique in style but bound by a common passion for quality, seasonality and simplicity.

The hotel’s signature restaurant is Colette’s in the heart of the historic mansion, with rising star Head Chef

Russell Bateman at the helm. A protégé of Gordon Ramsay and Marcus Wareing, Russell has won 3 AA Rosettes and brings his own creativity and flair to the food on the menu at Colette’s, including Scottish Beef Tartare with Sour Cream, Water Cress, Sourdough and Horseradish; Cornish Day Boat Monkfish with Heritage Carrots and Cuttlefish Sauce and Cornish Brill with Wild Garlic, Pickled Shellfish and Salsify.

Russell’s skill is to combine classic flavours with the more adventurous. His unique style of embracing diverse food and cultures while subtly mixing flavours and textures is highlighted through the use of the freshest and best ingredients, with many picked

daily from The Grove’s Walled Garden.

The Glasshouse is the ideal choice for a more informal culinary experience. Known as The Grove’s international theatre of cooking with its open-plan kitchen and impressive buffet style dining, The Glasshouse features an extensive terrace overlooking the formal gardens.

The Stables, situated in the original 18th century stable block, has a wholesome and rustic feel to it – perfect for the whole family. Head Chef Christopher Mouyassi uses the very best in seasonal ingredients to create informal yet gorgeous comfort food, which has been recently awarded an AA Rosette for innovation.

Designed with a New England

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look and feel, the restaurant opens onto a courtyard with views across to the golf course and the rolling hills beyond, providing an entirely different ambience from Colette’s and The Glasshouse.

Fun-filled family breaks

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he Grove provides a fun-filled break for all the family, whether they are young at heart, or young in years. With the expansive parkland, woods, meadows and gardens at their feet, there is plenty of space for little ones to run off some energy.

Alternatively, why not enjoy the unique benefit of The Grove’s onsite kids club, Anouska’s, (OFSTED registered Outstanding) with its action-packed programme of

activities designed specifically for children this spring. All the fun and games will happily keep the kids entertained for hours whilst parents explore the spectacular 18-hole championship golf course or indulge in a luxurious ESPA treatment in the award-winning Sequoia Spa. With contemporary deluxe family rooms and facilities geared specifically for families, enjoy four nights for the price of three this Easter weekend, from £325 per room. Combine a visit to The Grove with a trip to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter. A home-from-home for many of the stars, including Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint and Tom Felton during the filming of the international blockbuster series, The Grove is just a short drive from the sensational Warner

Bros. Studio Tour and offers overnight breaks starting from £350 per night including studio tour tickets.

Easter weekend children’s activities

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his spring, The Grove’s stunning Walled Garden opens once again for a season of enjoyment for all the family. Head over to the beach for a game of volleyball, croquet on the lawn, a drink or two in the Potting Shed or poolside gazebo and (weather permitting) an outdoor swim in the pool.

The Grove also offers a structured range of events over Easter, specifically for children over 2 years of age. Children can take part in organised games of rounders, cricket, tennis, football and golf, or the Easter Arts and Crafts Workshop for budding creative types. They can also enjoy an

Easter Tea, face painting, story hour, giant Scalextic, Formula 1 games consoles, children’s cinema and a Circus Skills Workshop at designated times each day.

On March 31st, Easter Sunday, at The Grove begins at 10am with an Easter Egg Treasure Hunt and ends late afternoon with the Hoop Sisters Hula Hoop Workshop and Disco. With contemporary deluxe family rooms and facilities geared specifically for families, enjoy four nights for the price of three this Easter weekend, and the kids (and parents) will be enthralled!

For more information on Anouska’s kids club, supervised care, Easter activities and the best offers for your Easter break at The Grove, please visit www.thegrove.co.uk/life or call 01923 296010.

The Grove, Chandler’s Cross, Hertfordshire WD3 4TG MMAARRCCHH 2 2001 13 3 12 57

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TOMOKA SPIRITS BOUTIQUE

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ust before Christmas a little boutique store opened up in Christopher Place in St. Albans. A little like a sweet shop for adults, Tomoka Spirits Boutique specialises in fine spirits and champagne. The owners of the shop, Jass, Roberto and Tim, invited us down to sample their wares and find out just what fine spirits and champagne are all about.

As you step into the shop, you are greeted by row and after row of spirits and champagnes, ranging from some old favourites to unusual cask matured whiskies, independent producer champagnes and vintage rums from the Caribbean. Jass observes that, just as there has been a growing interest in the provenance of food, a similar phenomenon has been happening in the drinks world. “Our customers are keen to

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know what makes this whisky or that champagne unique and how that translates into the taste; there is a heritage and a story behind each product that is really engaging� he tells me. Whether it’s the art of blending the still wines that become champagne passed down through the family for 175 years or a small Scottish distillery experimenting with different casks sourced from all over the world to produce different flavours in their whisky, behind all the products are people committed to producing quality drinks and doing it their own way.

At the moment, there is something of a gin renaissance happening in the UK, with a new distillery popping up almost every week it seems.

Roberto points to a number of more unusual bottles, including a Scottish gin distilled

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in Islay using herbs and spices which grow naturally on the island and another distilled in Herefordshire using oranges from Seville.

Provenance and heritage are key factors in gins he says, as each distillery has a different approach. All of this of course is good news for those partial to a G&T, with a myriad of different styles available.

The real test always come down to taste of course and the team at Tomoka has been holding some very interesting consumer tastings of late. “It’s always a treat to bring the people who make the products down so they can tell their own story to our customers; the passion for the products and the insights that you get into how and why they make them in the way they do are really compelling” Tim says. Since December, they have held champagne and whisky tastings and have plans for rum and gin in the near future. The prospect of tasting vintage rum from Barbados with salted caramel ice cream and matching peated islay whisky with cheese sounds very appealing indeed!

As well as tastings with the producers, which are held at local bars or restaurants in and around St Albans, the shop has a selection of small miscellaneous bottles of which any apothecary would be proud. The staff keep an eclectic selection of samples for customers to try, ranging from a luxurious coffee infused oak aged tequila to single malt whiskies from Japan. Although the shop is named after the ship owned by a prolific bootlegger during the prohibition era, they are happy to confirm that none of the spirits has been produced in bathtubs (even the suspiciously named bottle of Bathtub Gin), as they were in 1920s America!

For more information about the shop and their tastings, you can ring them on 01727 894869, email them at billmccoy@tomokaspiritsboutique.co.uk or pop into the shop in Christopher Place in St. Albans (where of course you can take the opportunity to sample a few products!).

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BONHAMS SALE OF FINE & RARE WINES THURSDAY 4TH APRIL 2013 101 NEW BOND STREET, LONDON Bonhams sale of Fine & Rare Wines on 4th April will include a wide range of classic Bordeaux and Burgundy from two of the finest vintages in Bordeaux, 10 bottles of Chateau Haut-Brion 1959 are offered with an estimate of £6,000 -7,000 with a case of Petrus 1982 at £40,000-60,000.

Amongst several rare old bottles of Chateau Lafite Rothschild included in the sale are two bottles of 1914 (£9001,200), one bottle of 1959 (£1,3001,600) and one bottle of 1961 (£750850). A full case of 1962 Chateau Latour vintage is also offered, with an estimate of £2,800-3,500.

Two collections of more recent vintages include many wines from the classic 2000 vintage with Carruades de Lafite 2000 (£1,8002,200), Chateau Palmer 2000 (£1,6002,000), Chateau Pichon Lalande 2000 (£1,300-1,500), Les Forts de Latour 2000 (£1,300-1,500), Chateau Trotanoy 2000 (£1,200-1,500) and Chateau Ducru-Beaucaillou 2000 (£1,000-1,300) amongst others.

From Burgundy, the top lot in the sale is a case of Romanee-Conti 1988 with an estimate of £70,000-90,000), with a case of Corton, Leroy 30 MARCH2013

1999 at £3,200-3,800. A very rare bottle of Clos Vougeot, Liger-Belair from the excellent 1911 vintage is offered at £500-700.

White Burgundy from top producers include 6 bottles of Montrachet, Lafon 2006 (£2,500-3,000), 3 bottles Montrachet, Sauzet 2002 (£600-700) and 6 bottles Batard-Montrachet, Ramonet 2002 (£720-820) as well as a wide range of Chassagne-Montrachet from Domaine Ramonet, Michel Niellon and Chateau de la Maltroye.

A single bottle of 1959 Dom Perignon Oenotheque Champagne is offered at £1,000-1,200 and a rare old bottle of Grande Chartreuse at £1,200-1,500.

Rare Cognacs include a bottle of Napoleon Grande Fine Champagne Reserve 1811 (£8001,000) and several bottles of Fine Champagne Reserve 1914 from the cellars of the celebrated restaurant, Maxim’s, in Paris at £300-400 each.

For more details, please contact Richard Harvey on 020 7468 5811 or email wine@bonhams.com www.bonhams.com

Bedroom s by

ST. GEORGE’S DAY AFTERNOON TEA Tuesday 23rd April 2013 Enjoy a St. George’s Day themed traditional afternoon tea feast with a glass of bubbly, finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones and dainty pastries along with live entertainment.

MAY DAY CELEBRATIONS—Monday 6th May 2013 Celebrate the beginning of Summer with Hanbury Manor's May Day event from 1pm with a traditional afternoon tea and glass of bubbly and enjoy the traditional May pole and folk dancing from the Morris men on the front lawn.£30 per person

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Opt for a hog roast and drink for £7.50 per person* Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Pre-booking required. *Ticket Required.

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your PurChASE

Exclusive to Watford from Mon 11th - Sun 17th March 2013 Feather & Black Watford, Located Within Multiyork, 38 The Parade, WD17 1AZ Tel: 01923 831 871

www.featherandblack.com *This offer is only available in our Watford store from Monday 11th to Sunday 17th March 2013 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or redeemed against exsisting orders. The extra discounts are not applicable on Tempur products, Sofa Beds, Wardrobe Solutions, Cochine, Limited Edition, Clearance or Ex-display items.

To make a booking please call on: 01920 487 722

HANBURY MANOR, A MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0SD; Telephone: 01920 487 722; Website: MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk

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THE ULTIMATE LUXURY CHOCOLATE GIFT FOR EASTER What do you do if you really want something special and just can’t find it? When all you yearn for is just the best of its kind in the world - and no-one seems to have produced it; at least not to the standard you desire?

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f you are Roy and Tracey Jones you initially scour the earth for a key ingredient and, when you have finally tracked it down, you create what you were looking for in the first place - the world’s finest luxury chocolate experience. “I wanted to buy a very special present for a very special person on a very special day - her 40th birthday,” explains Tracey. “Like me she is a chocoholic! I went to the top-end departments stores and even some of the little luxury chocolate boutiques but just could not find what I wanted. There is a lot of nice chocolate about, of course, but, I don’t know, there was always something missing. It was very frustrating and in the end I bought her something else entirely. ”That was the beginning but by no means the end of a two year journey which has reached a triumphant conclusion with the launch of ‘the Chocolate’ Roy and Tracey’s new business dedicated to producing ‘the best luxury chocolate experience in the world.’

What is it ?

In its simplest form we are talking about an amazing ‘experience’. Handmade truffles using an award winning, secret recipe Italian chocolate, filled with champagne, flaked with edible 24-carat gold all enclosed within a bespoke handcrafted boutique box encrusted with more than 450 Swarovski Crystals inside and out. Also made by hand no two of these boxes will ever be the same. The chocolate itself is 63% Toscano Black sourced from a tiny artisan chocolate maker based just outside historic Pisa. The cocoa beans are refined using a traditional granite stone mill and the result has been judged by the Academy of Chocolate as officially the best in the world. What experts call the ganache - basically the mixture of cocoa, cream and a variety of other ingredients to form what consumers think of as, well, the chocolate – that forms ‘the Chocolate’ is a closely guarded secret but Roy and Tracey are happy to confirm that there are several glasses of champagne added to the normal recipe. “As we make everything ourselves we can, of course,

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produce ‘the Chocolate’ without alcohol if required,” commented Tracey.

You Eat the Gold?

It’s the world’s most expensive foodstuff and has been eaten for millennia.

Although the Ancient Egyptians believed it gave them immortality no such claims are made for ‘the Chocolate.’ (yet). However other authorities do claim that gold has many attributes when eaten, including generating a higher IQ, managing rheumatoid arthritis, developing mystic power and contributing to a long and healthy life. More seriously it is authorised for use in food products in both Europe and the USA. High quality chocolate also has its enthusiasts. They claim that chocolate with over 60% cocoa content (‘the Chocolate’ has 63%) reduces blood pressure, decreases the chance of both diabetes and heart attack, improves the memory and even eases a persistent cough amongst a plethora of other attributes. Be that as it may the fact remains that ‘the Chocolate’ has a fantastic taste that will exceed the expectations of the wildest choccie enthusiast. And the memory of the experience will last and last.

The Products Available online at www.the-chocolate.com and and seasonally at Harrods, the Boutique Box contains 15 chocolates minimum and a weight of 200 grammes (shown above). It retails at £190 including postage and packing. Delivery of this unique hand-made product is within five days or can be expressed for specific delivery date. Various box designs starting from £20 delivered.

Available online and seasonally at Harrods For more information on the Chocolate visit: www.the-chocolate.com

EASTER BREAKS AT LONDON’S COUNTRY ESTATE

Fun for the whole family, a more intimate time together, or

the chance to have both.

3 nights for 2

www.thegrove.co.uk/life

HOT OFF THE PRESS! Anouska’s Kids Club at The Grove is now open to local residents offering childcare for children aged 3 months to 5 years. OFSTED Outstanding.

For more information please call 01923 296077 or visit www.thegrove.co.uk

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Unique collaboration between St Pancras Renaissance Hotel & Eurostar

t Pancras Renaissance Hotel announces the launch of its exclusive VIP Eurostar transfer service.. As the only hotel in London with authorised security clearance, it is a major coup for the property to be able to provide guests with such an exceptional level of service, whilst also showcasing the strength of the enduring relationship between the hotel and Eurostar.

hotel and Eurostar. Both located in St Pancras International Station, the natural synergy between the brands has led to a number of partnership opportunities since the hotel’s opening in May 2011. The glamour and romance of Victorian train travel may be a thing of the past, but with the speed and efficiency this new service provides, travelling to and from continental Europe has never been more appealing!

Dedicated Butlers & Concierge will ensure a smooth and seamless journey from the moment guests’ check out of their room or suite right up until they are seated in their Eurostar carriage. This allows guests to remain in their suite or relax in The Chambers Club until 30 minutes before their train is due to depart. With luggage packed onto a porter’s trolley, they will then be escorted to the terminal and fast tracked through security before being personally delivered onto the train. The same can be done in reverse for those arriving from continental Europe.

General Manager of the hotel, Kevin Kelly, explains “We are delighted to be working with Eurostar and are proud to be the only hotel in London able to offer guests this exclusive service. The Kings Cross area is unrivalled for transport connections – locally, nationally and internationally and this VIP transfer ensures an exceptional level of service for those travelling to and from Continental Europe.”

The complimentary service is the latest in a host of benefits available to guests staying in The Chambers, the 38 rooms and suites and private club housed in the original Victorian part of the hotel. With its breathtaking staircase, archways and ceiling, the Club is the most exclusive part of the building and offers an uncompromised sense of occasion and grandeur.

Chambers guests currently enjoy complimentary breakfast, afternoon tea and early evening canapés in the Club’s sophisticated surroundings and can help themselves to a selection of alcoholic and soft drinks throughout their stay. Other benefits include a complimentary wet shave in Melogy men’s grooming salon, priority table reservations at Marcus Wareing’s The Gilbert Scott restaurant and access to personalized Butler service.

The launch further cements the continued relationship between the

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Nick Mercer, Commercial Director, Eurostar, said “Following Eurostar’s move to St Pancras International, the opening of the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel’s doors represented the final piece in the regeneration jigsaw and a return to the station’s Golden Age. Working together we are able to offer our guests and travellers the very best travel experience and the perfect start to their journeys. All of the great railway stations throughout history have involved the marriage of luxury train travel and luxury hotel accommodation and our new partnership represents a continuation of this great tradition.

No matter where or why you travel, there’s always something wonderfully new to be found.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

St Pancras Renaissance Hotel London, Euston Road, London, England www.stpancrasrenaissance.com

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BRITISH BEACH POLO CHAMPIONSHIP 2013

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s a highlight of the South Coast’s summer season, the Asahi British Beach Polo Championship will return to Sandbanks, Poole for its sixth year on the 12/13thJuly 2013. Supported by some of the best arena polo players the hotly anticipated beach festival promises more excitement and glamour both on and off the pitch. England, Ireland, Scotland (sponsored by our very own Sandbanks Life for the second consecutive year) and Wales will be competing with Ireland keen to retain the title after a gripping final against Wales last year. There is floodlit night beach polo on the Friday evening, visiting international polo teams and of course the ‘bonkers’ beach polo after parties.

Arena polo is a spectacular spectator sport and played on a stunning Blue Flag beach (preferable sundrenched!) brings the very best out

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of the players and guests. The thorough bred ponies and high goal players love playing on the beach in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd. Jack Kidd who is a regular for England at the Championships says ‘I have been lucky enough to play polo all round the world – Sandbanks is still one of my favourite weekends of the year. The polo is insanely competitive, the guests are always on great form and the beach party’s well – they are simply the best!’

Whether visitors are dining in the waterfront Sandpolo Hospitality marquee, enjoying the exclusive VIP experience, soaking up the atmosphere with General Admission tickets, or just choosing to sit outside the fence on the purpose built beach viewing area it is a chance for polo and Sandbanks to show off its attributes to about 5000 seasoned and new supporters each year.

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To complement the polo The Asahi British Beach Polo Championship offers a host of other activities such as ‘have a go’ polo, the Oakley Ladies Beach Volleyball, fashion shows, the charity Audi V Polo Pony race and the vibrant retail village. The polo is an excuse to dress up (or strip off for a quick swim), stay up late and indulge.

Founded by Johnny Wheeler and David Heaton-Ellis the publicity for the inaugural Championships in 2008 was kick started by Piers Morgan drawing people’s attention to Sandbanks as ‘Britain’s Monte Carlo’ . Despite the onset of the recession a growing number of businesses use this ‘boutique’ event to entertain clients, reward their staff and promote their brands. Whilst sponsorship is still an important revenue stream new ideas such as camel polo (stand by for the elephants!), floodlit beach polo, equine displays and the appearance of the odd celebrity has kept people talking about the event and coming back year on year.

So why does the Championships keep returning to Poole. Johnny Wheeler says ‘a cooperative council and a large stunning easily

accessible beach are the vital ingredients for us as event organisers.

Some good weather, the best polo players and an enthusiastic crowd is pretty important too’. The beach polo continues to add massive value to Sandbanks and continues to go from strength to strength.

After Dark Polo players and supporters have something of a reputation for letting their hair down. The polo ‘beach after parties’ at Sandbanks provides seasoned and new comers to the sport with a very cool but exciting place to relax, socialise and dance until the small hours of the morning.

On the Friday evening live music will increase in tempo after the floodlit beach polo match with the most original DJs connecting with the mixed generation audience. The closing party on Saturday night brings an unmissable eclectic mix of sounds to rock the Jurassic coast.

With the title sponsors Asahi beer providing a refreshing balance to the flowing champagne and excellent food to fuel the dancing it is rare to see people leave the beach before the 1am survivors photo. www.sandpolo.com

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THE BNY MELLON

2013 BOAT RACE SATURDAY 31st MARCH 2013, 4.30PM

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he 159th Boat Race on 7th April will see oarsmen of six different nationalities competing, as the older, more internationally experienced crew from Oxford take on the younger, heavier Cambridge eight. The idea for a rowing race between the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge came from two friends - Charles Merivale, a student at Cambridge, and his Harrow school friend Charles Wordsworth (nephew of the poet William Wordsworth), who was at Oxford.

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On 12 March 1829, Cambridge sent a challenge to Oxford and thus the tradition was born which has continued to the present day, where the loser of the previous year’s race challenges the opposition to a re-match.

The first Boat Race took place at Henley-onThames in Oxfordshire and contemporary newspapers report crowds of twenty thousand travelled to watch. The race was stopped soon after the start and, following the restart, Oxford were clear winners. Cambridge wore pink, the

colour of Lady Margaret Boat Club (of St. Johns College), who their captain and two other crew members rowed for. Oxford have always worn dark blue.

The event was such a resounding success that the townspeople later decided to organise a regatta of their own which duly became Henley Royal Regatta. After the first year, the early Boat Races took place at Westminster in London, but by 1845, when Westminster had become too crowded, the Boat Race moved

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six miles up-stream to the then country village of Putney. In 1856 the race became an annual event (excepting only the war years).

The Modern Boat Race still runs along the same lines but has now become a major international sporting occasion drawing millions of viewers from around the world.

The Boat Race course is marked by three classic bends, two in favour of the Middlesex station, on the north bank of the Thames, while the third favours the crew drawn on the opposite Surrey station. In spite of these bends the course is theoretically fair - the start and finish lines are exactly parallel, and in the unlikely event of the crews staying level throughout the race, they will both have covered the magic Boat Race distance of exactly 4 miles 374 yards.

The Finish Line is just a few yards downstream from Chiswick Road bridge and here the crowds on Race Day are as densely packed as those near the Start. What those crowds witness as the crews cross the Line is the ecstasy of the victors and the despair of the losing crew.

On Race Day up to 250,000 spectators crowd the banks of the Thames from Putney to Mortlake to witness the action.

The start of the race is marked by the University stone, a few hundred yards upstream from Putney Road Bridge and for the first quarter of a mile, as the crews pass the historic boathouses of Putney Embankment.

Enjoy the festival atmosphere of the Boat Race by watching for free from one of the many vantage points along the course. You should be able to find a place to watch on either side of the river along the full length of the course, but particular areas to note are: Putney Bridge, Putney Embankment and Bishops Park (at the start); Hammersmith and Barnes (mid-course); Dukes Meadows and Chiswick Bridge (at the finish).

Please do not drive to the race if you have a choice. Parking is limited and for non-residents on the day of The Boat race it is extremely hard to find. You risk listening to the race on the car radio instead of seeing it from the riverbank!

There are large screens at Bishops Park, Fulham and Furnival Gardens, Hammersmith which mean you will be able to watch the whole Race before and after the crews have passed. The parks will also feature food outlets, beer stands and merchandising stalls. BBC1 will be showing the Boat Race live including build up from around 2pm, visit www.bbc.co.uk for more information For more information www.theboatrace.org

How to get there...

BUS For the start in Putney, the number 14 bus from Tottenham Court Road and the 22 from Piccadilly Circus will both take you across Putney Bridge.

For the middle part of the Race at the Surrey Bend, the number 9 bus from Charing Cross or the 10 from Euston and Oxford Circus or the 27 from Camden will take you to Hammersmith - close to the riverside at Chiswick Malls.

For the Finish in Mortlake, take the 209 or 190 from Hammersmith. Bus routes are shown on all maps.

TRAIN For the start in Putney, Putney railway station is on Putney High Street at the

Upper Richmond Road. Trains arrive from Clapham Junction, Waterloo or Victoria.

West of Putney, the line divides at the next stop Barnes Station - just over a mile away - going towards Barnes Bridge where the finishing stretch begins, or towards Mortlake for the Finish. Stations are shown in all maps.

LONDON UNDERGROUND For the Start, East Putney is south of the river and Putney Bridge is north Putney Bridge is the closest station.

Ravenscourt Park and Hammersmith are closest to the viewing areas at Chiswick Mall.

Stations are shown on all maps. Hammersmith station is accessible for wheelchairs but the Putney tube stations are not.

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F E AT U R E

BENTLEY SENSES SUCCESS WITH NEW FRAGRANCE COLLECTION Bentley is delighted to announce the launch of its first luxury fragrance range for men, which brings together the two worldrenowned brands of the master French crystal maker Lalique and the iconic British car company.

Lalique creates the first limited edition crystal flacon for Bentley fragrance collection of luxury scents for men A Unique artwork reflects dynamism of Bentley design

Lindsay Weaver, Director of Licensing at Bentley Motors, comments: “This collaboration has allowed the transposition of Bentley brand core attributes into luxury fragrance.”

‘Lalique for Bentley Crystal Edition’ “Bentley and Lalique have a similar history. Both companies were founded almost 100 years ago. Both stand for craftsmanship and tradition, but also for luxury, lifestyle and innovation. To create a fragrance together is to capture 40 MARCH2013

the essence of our skills and our vision in a bottle,” says Silvio Denz, CEO of Lalique.

The collaboration between Bentley and Art & Fragrance, owner of Lalique, creates the bespoke ‘Lalique for Bentley Crystal Edition’, an impressive crystal flacon with the legendary ‘Flying B’ Bentley mascot. Finely wrought in gleaming crystal, the dynamic styling of its wings epitomises timeless beauty.

Daniele Ceccomori, Bentley Designer, says: “The crystal edition is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, reflecting the unrivalled luxury and elegant values of both Bentley and Lalique. Just as the ‘Flying B’ sits gracefully on the front of our flagship Mulsanne model, we wanted to communicate the

F E AT U R E

same importance with the preciousness of the crystal artwork and the uniqueness of the essence treasured by its delicate flacon”.

The eau de parfum itself, composed by Mylène Alran, from the French perfume house Robertet, is a fitting elixir of fine woody notes and exquisite leather to complement the epicentres of excellence within Bentley’s craftsmanship. Further, precious orris butter accord enriches the scent to create a sensual and charismatic character. The ‘Lalique for Bentley Crystal Edition’ showcases the finest glassmaking expertise and is limited to only 999 pieces, available at a number of carefully selected retailers from April 2013.

‘Bentley for Men’ and ‘Intense’ range The ‘Bentley for Men’ and the high-impact ‘Bentley for Men Intense’ fragrances are created by top French perfumer Nathalie Lorson, from the perfume house Firmenich. She has skilfully transformed the quintessence of the luxury automotive brand Bentley into a superb and unmistakeable fragrance experience. To do so, the finest perfume raw ingredients have been used, including those must-haves for Bentley’s debut fragrance, fine wood and leather notes.

“I chose cedar because of its powerful unadulterated scent and patchouli for its sensual depth and natural elegance,” explains Nathalie.

The ‘Intense’ version will take these notes to another level by infusing the rich scent with aromatic African geranium. The bottle design echoes the luxury of the cars with an elegant symmetrical shape, striking appeal and a knurled ring around the top. Both captivating Bentley fragrances will be available at selected perfumeries and department stores from April 2013.

Prices Price for the ‘Lalique for Bentley Crystal Edition’ Eau de Parfum £3,000 / 3,500 / 40 ml Price list for the ‘Bentley for Men’ product range Eau de Toilette £43 / 59 / 60 ml Eau de Toilette £59.50 / 79 / 100 ml Intense Eau de Parfum £69.50 / 87 / 100 ml After Shave Balm £32 / 50 / 100 ml Hair & Body Shampoo £24 / 27 / 200 ml For further information on Bentley please visit: www.bentleymedia.com Twitter @BentleyMotorsPR You Tube www.youtube.com/bentleymotors

MARCH2013 41

F E AT U R E

BURBERRY PRORSUM FINALE

London Fashion Week Highlights Autumn/Winter 2013 Collections A world of celebrities and famous people, beautiful and expensive clothes and general fashion glitz. The vibrant and internationally renowned London Fashion Week is always exciting and inspirational, and last month’s event proved to be just that.

L

ondon Fashion Week presented another unrivalled opportunity for both established designers and newcomers to present their latest collections. A constantly buzzing key event for those who haven’t got the patience to wait until the latest fashion designs and stylish fashion trends make it into the fashion magazines. 62 catwalk shows and 20 presentations took place across the 5 days. The magic of London Fashion Week is not merely thanks to the fashion designers’ and fashion stylists’ cutting-edge collections but the media excitement that accompanies them. The allure of the show is exceptional and London Fashion Week continues to be the top fashion event pulling visitors from every corner of the globe, with international press attending from 42 countries. It’s a week where designers are free to create at will and experiment with new trends for clothing. The world watches as fashion history is made. While we are all thinking about our Spring and Summer wardrobes, designers were showcasing this year’s Autumn/Winter collections during last month’s London Fashion Week.

PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND The Pringle of Scotland Autumn/Winter 2013 collection offers a clean and structured silhouette, softened through the use of luxurious knits and a colour palette that builds from white, chalk, praline and caramel tones through to vivid cornflower and sea blue, with a 1960’s influence. The brand’s iconic argyle is presented in varying forms, from a more literal interpretation on a knitted dress with devore effect diamonds, to the subtle formation of pixelated prints, to the use of sharp angles that mimic the points of a diamond seen on the v neckline of a tuxedo jacket and in the rib hem detail of a cashmere knit. The twinset concept is developed through the matching of elements throughout looks; from the yarn on a knitted sweater that is mirrored in the knitted pocket panels of the trouser, to skirt and trouser suits that pair double weave fabrics, to the trimming of a knitted dress and cardigan with matching tubular knit piping. Pringle has been a favourite of the stars of stage and screen since the 1940s. in the 1950s, the original sweater girls: Jean Simmons, Margaret Lockwood, Deborah Kerr, Grace Kelly, Brigitte Bardot, and many more all wore Pringle. Pringle now

sells from London, Milan and New York showrooms, with their London flagship store in Sloane Street, Chelsea.

BURBERRY PRORSUM Burberry showed its Burberry Prorsum Womenswear Autumn/Winter 2013 collection, inspired by Burberry classics, sixtiesbeauty Christine Keeler, and featuring an iconic Burberry colour palette. The show culminated in a surprise music performance that celebrated Burberry’s support of emerging British music talent. The runway opened up to reveal a stage with Tom Odell, 2013 Critics’ Choice BRIT award winner and Burberry Acoustic musician, accompanied by a choir of concert backing singers. The performance of the forthcoming single ‘Hold Me’ served as the backdrop for the show finale, concluding a British soundtrack by Paloma Faith and Burberry Acoustic musician Misty Miller. The show marked Burberry’s debut of Runway Made to Order, a service that offers custom-made outerwear and bags from the collection featuring personalised engraved nameplates. Over 1500 guests attended the show at the custom-built Burberry show venue in London’s Hyde Park, including Les Miserables director Tom Hooper, actors Kate Beckinsale, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Freida Pinto, Vicki Zhao, Melanie Laurent, Michelle Dockery, Gabriella Wilde, Alinne Moraes, Alice Braga, Olivia Palermo, Douglas Booth, Harry Treadaway, Joe Dempsie and Callum Turner. Musicians Rita Ora, Tinie Tempah, Jake Bugg, Dan Gillespie-Sells, George Craig, Harley Viera-Newton, Nil Karaibrahimgil and Misty Miller and 2012 Olympic champion Victoria Pendleton also attended. As part of the show, Burberry also introduced Burberry Nail Polish to its beauty collection, launching in stores in Autumn 2013.

JASPER CONRAN Jasper Conran lit up London Fashion Week, with models sporting bold creations in navy, blue, brown, black grape, ultra violet and moss green.

The show illustrated gorgeous cashmere knit and crepe de chine, double jersey suit shirts and pleated skirts. Violet Pink, Persimmon Ginger, Tan and Caramel Wood Crepe, Leather and Cavalry twill tailored t’s and Short, jersey MARCH2013 43

JASPER CONRAN

JULIEN MACDONALD

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

TOM FORD TOM FORD

BURBERRY PRORSUM FRONT ROW

PRINGLE OF SCOTLAND

OSMAN SHOW

CHRISTOPHER KANE

F E AT U R E dresses with a silk binding with a patent shoe. Geranium, Bubblegum gold, Brown and Black Organza, Chiffon and Zibeline – The dress a soft trapeze, pailettes and beaded spirals. A colour hit.

PAUL SMITH Packed with rich texture and vibrant colour combinations, Paul Smith’s autumn/winter 2013 women’s collection offers a contemporary twist on sartorial classics. The collection mixes hard and soft textures contrasting soft alpaca tweeds and lambskin with silk twill and layered organza. Dark, wintry shades collide with optimistic brights and a softened silhouette with harsh lines; relaxed shoulders contrast with tailored trousers and sharply cut collars and sleeves in outerwear. Geometric prints are subtly incorporated into fabrics, bonded onto felted wool and crisp cotton, and inject a signature Paul Smith twist into linings and soft accessories. Vivid accessories mix and match with bold separates, either complementing rich hues or clashing with right tailoring. The oversized portfolio clutch is a key accessory, available in an array of colours, asis the ‘Ziggy’ bag. The ‘Base’ holdall is reinvented this season in ‘Point’ fabric, designed by Paul in collaboration with textile designers Maharam. Key shoe styles include ‘Pepper’ court shoes with an elegant pointed toe, ‘Eta’ low-cut booties with ankle straps, ‘Waters’ elongated loafers and ‘Miles’ loafer ankle boots.

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON This season, Matthew Williamson imagines a TOM FORD spirited English rose seeking adventures new.

It’s an idea that best translates into a unique jacquard that sets a red rose against a rich tapestry, conceived entirely in-house and which often appears further enhanced with hand embroideries, creating an almost 3D effect. Opulent colour and print is informed by the Northern Lights. This spectacular light show is depicted as digitally printed snowscapes with acid green-lit skies, and also, as long shards of neon and iridescent sequins which land on full-length column sheaths. This concept of surprise illumination continues into sequined floor-skimming evening gowns, in degrade pewter, gunmetal and sulphur yellow.

Silhouettes are refreshed and now fall away from the body in favour of trapeze and tunic designs with longer hemlines. Below-the-knee skirts are knife pleated and erupt into fluted shapes inspired by the traditional dress of Nordic natives, whose eclectic costumes also inform strings of mini pompoms and jewels adorning necklines of sweaters, blanket-style dresses and coats in hyper-coloured stripe and chevron. Waffle sweaters are knitted with rabbit fur, and elsewhere, wildly colourful fox and raccoon stoles add new verve to clean line tailoring and evening wear. Autumn/Winter 2013 also sees the debut of Matthew Williamson leather handbags, a capsule collection of roomy handheld totes, and smaller duffle styles in leather and jacquard boasting longer across-body chains.

HOUSE OF HOLLAND ‘Nana Rave’ House of Holland harks back to the autumn of 1989, the end of the second summer of love and the acid house scene. A field full of “like minded people” a pocket full of “treats” and they’re all up at 9 to collect their state pension.

70s graphic interior prints, jewel coloured palettes of tonal ruby, emerald and sapphire, pops of neon appear in shearling trims and floor length zips.

Crystal embellishments of club night indulgence all collide in this 70s – meets – 90s nostalgic homage. Silk fil coupé, printed and embellished wool crepes, printed stretch and patent leather, and maribou embellished grey marl all come together to create a rich layering of textures.

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD RED LABEL This season the collection took inspiration from mythical nature. The collection began looking at feminine prints of delicate flora and wild fauna,

looking at patterns in nature, that then lead to studying gods of nature and Greek mythology, split into 3 main areas of inspiration: ‘Pan’- in Greek Mythology is the God of Wild, shepherds and flocks, nature, hunting and rustic music, and companion to the nymphs. ‘Pan’ is the more masculine part of the collection- with oversized, boxy, loose coats and minimal clean lines in jersey and knitwear.

‘Artemis’- is the great Olympian goddess of hunting, wilderness and wild animals and is also a goddess of the nymphs. Artemis is one of the patron gods of the mythical, warlike, bow-wielding Amazons. ‘Artemis’ is the pared down feminine part of the collection that offers rounded shoulders, fitted high waists, hiplines curving outwards creating a slight 40’s silhouette, soft curved lines in tailoring with contrasting voluminous and narrow silhouettes.

‘Selene’- is the moon goddess and Pan’s greatest conquest. He wooed her by wrapping himself in a sheepskin to hide his goat form and drew her down from the sky into the forest where he seduced her. ‘Selene’ is the most sensual part of the collection, offering cape details in coats, fluid draping in tops and dresses, short jackets and bolero styles in leather and sequins, and feminine voluminous knitwear. Vivienne Westwood’s press release presented at the show is in support of the Climate Revolution: The Revolution is already begun. The fact of man-made climate change is accepted by most people. Through every walk of life people are changing their values and their behaviour. The fight is no longer between the classes or between rich and poor but between the idiots and the eco-conscious. Climate Revolution is the only means towards a sound economy. When the general public massively switches on to this fact we will win. If we want a sound economy we have to have a sound environment. What’s good for the planet is good for the economy / What’s bad for the planet is bad for the economy.

How to join the revolution sign up today at http://climaterevolution.org.uk/ www.activeresistance.co.uk/getalife ISSA LONDON Rolling sandy hills, sprawling valleys, endless blue skies. The rugged home of native Navajo Indians acted as a rich source of inspiration to Issa this season. From the bold geometric designs of woven blankets to wide brushstrokes mimicking the flow of the Colorado River, Issa delivers prints as diverse as the landscape from which they originate, experimenting with fabrics and textures rich in tradition, yet re-worked to deliver a thoroughly modern finish. Woven, monochrome feather jacquards feel warm and comfortable but fashioned into pleat front trousers, circle skirt dresses and fitted jackets they’re the epitome of understated chic. Our Fit & Flare jacquard dresses have been updated with a variety of contemporary prints from skeleton, monochrome designs to striking geometric, bright angles.

Silk, in all its timeless indulgence, is part of Issa’s culture and has been expertly tapered into slim-fit, printed shirts and neatly fitted or flowing, wide leg trousers to effortlessly take you from day to evening. Alternatively, the Issa woman can waft through the heat of the day in breezy silk chiffon kaftans printed with majestic eagle feathers; embroidered with plumes and beaded fringe echoing the headdresses of warrior tribes as they fan out sumptuously across the neckline. As the light fades and evening sets in she slips into one of this season’s show-stopping, embroidered evening dresses.

Ultra-glamorous shapes cut from heavy crepe de chine are adorned with cut mirror and crystals to ensure she glimmers alongside the camp fire.

Gliding through the crowd in a long, languid dress cut to reveal an open back, seductively long sleeves or teasingly closed neck. These are dresses to guarantee you’ll have all eyes on you.

MARCH2013 45

F E AT U R E JOHN ROCHA Continuing his exploration and love of colour from his Spring Summer collection, John Rocha finds inspiration in the winter bright landscapes of Wicklow and the palettes in the work of Gary Hume. As always with John’s work there is a duality – a balance between the tender and the strong.

The palette, while grounded in all the textured tints of black, is bold and beautiful with meadow greens, olive and lime, candy and sugar pinks, coral, red and flame. The silhouette is crafted in rugged felts, autumn sparkled tweed, mohair, double jerseys, latex glazed lace and John’s signature silk georgettes and chiffons.

Over-sized great coats envelope the body, falling from the shoulder or tucked to the waist with slender belts. Cape coats and cropped reefers feature embedded collars. Figured dresses with cropped kimono sleeves bell or skim the form. While long sleeved shifts and trouser suits create a slim, more austere silhouette. Throughout the collection surfaces are densely worked in tone on tone stitch work, looped felts, and cartwheels in hand crochet mohair, and flurries of wonderful blossoms lend an almost couture sensibility. The collection is dressed with colour bright patent shoes and over size felt clutch bags. Headdresses draped in tulle, wrap the hair adding a little beautiful whimsy.

MARIA GACHVOGEL Reflection Maria Grachvogel Autumn/Winter 2013 presents extreme simplicity and modernity in cut and texture. The collection is inspired by the quiet calm of winter woodland landscapes laid bare. Through artwork prints and intricately textured fabrics, Maria Grachvogel explores the beauty of winter decay and the introspection provoked by witnessing the changing seasons. The collection expresses this reflection through the purity of carefully composed prints and tailoring, embodying nature’s cycle of birth and rebirth through the seasons. Stark bare branches printed on a fragile silk chiffon slip dress, decaying leaves cascade down tailored wool pieces or monochromatic looks with Japanese-inspired architectural folds cling to the female form with silent strength. Pared down white-onblack graphic botanical prints and their negatives evoke a photographic quality. These give way to the soft beauty of fragile change through dark hues of ashen, lichen, bone, oxblood and deep winter rivers of teal blue edged with ice and bare-branch black. The ethereal sparseness of the season is illustrated with discreet flashes of print that are revealed upon movement and the play of light and dark that give symmetry to the body through the cut of textured fabric.

As a counterpoint to the mood of decomposition, the collection is infused with elements of newness, marking an evolution for Maria Grachvogel.

Texture is explored through the use of innovative, technically sophisticated fabrics, adding a dimension of unique discovery and illusion. Woven jacquard, reminiscent of vintage embroidered lace, is cut into inherently modern pieces. Degradé wool weaves together black and bone and is cut to create a textured illusion that sculpts the body. Printed velvet adds richness to the Maria Grachvogel signature jumpsuit. Maria Grachvogel introduces an expanded knitwear offering and new capsule jersey collection that offer new options to form luxe, go-anywhere looks. Drapey, simple knits pair with structured, tailored pieces whilst Maria’s signature artwork print tops are shown for the first time with a skinny stretch pant.

Maria Grachvogel has once again partnered with Atalanta Weller to create wedge ankle boots in artwork printed leather and glossy patent to finish the look. A softly tailored kimono cape jacket and a leather belted-waist sheepskin coat embody the pared-down simplicity of Maria Grachvogel Autumn/Winter 2013 collection.

46 MARCH2013

JULIEN MACDONALD Autumn Winter 2013 sees Julien Macdonald’s return to the catwalk to present a ready to wear collection displaying his signature styles, embodying Macdonald’s aesthetic of chic, modern glamour. Taking inspiration from the energetic, bright lights, casinos and graphic architectural aesthetic of Las Vegas, Macdonald fuses elegant style with elements of modern construction, tinged with a rock and roll edge for a fresh geometric feel. Focusing solely on dresses named after luxury Las Vegas hotels and iconic places, encompassing the high energy of the casinos, the collection showcases long, lean graphic silhouettes softened with feminine adornment as well as short dresses vibrant with pops of colour. Each dress encapsulates the atypical Macdonald woman, strong, confident and sophisticated. Luxe detailing and eccentric styling translates into expertly placed feathers, Swarovski beads and graphic sequins creating luxurious, opulent sheets of armor. The collection is highlighted with flashes of colour such as poison green, while dangerous reds, Ochre yellow and burnt orange imitate the saturated colours of a desert sunset, contrasting with shimmering metallics reflective of Las Vegas architecture. The collection is completed with Macdonald’s signature knitwear styles. New bionic stretch lace mixed with velvet yarns is seen on body-con dresses and cat suits, while other styles are infused with metallic thread and chain breaking the boundaries of stitching techniques within knitting. Launched in January of 2012, Julien Macdonald continues to offer a bespoke service to private clients made in his London atelier.

OSMAN A journey to an otherworldly place, an ethereal fantasy Colours - bright winter white, icy tones of blue, smokey greys, gold & cream punctuated with deep black sheers Fabric - finely woven double faced cashmere, hand loomed brocades, bonded techno fabric, jacquard wool, crochet, karakul, lurex and wool blend, leather and lurex sheers.

2012 was an unforgettable year for our city and the serotonin is still flowing with the launch of the talentfest that is London Fashion Week. We have astonishingly creative people working in the capital, bringing energy and ideas as well as generating business.

“Over just a few days Fashion Week showcases our best fashion designers, puts London’s creative industries on the front pages and brings in over £100 million of orders alone” THE MAYOR OF LONDON BORIS JOHNSON

The direct value of the UK fashion industry to the UK economy is £21 billion (source: BFC Value of Fashion Report 2010) The UK fashion industry is estimated to support 816,000 jobs and is the largest employer of all the creative industries. The sector also provides opportunities to minority groups to a greater extent than most other creative industries (SOURCE: BFC VALUE OF FASHION REPORT 2010)

Fashion Week is one of the highest profile fashion events in the world and one of the ‘big four’ international catwalk influencers. The event is organised by the British Fashion Council (BFC) and funded by a number of sponsors (including Canon Europe current headline sponsor for seven consecutive seasons). London Fashion Week puts London and British Fashion firmly on the global stage, generating orders in the region of £100m; the event itself contributes £20 million to the London economy in terms of direct spend and attracts visitors from over 25 countries including US, France, Italy, Russia, Middle East, China and UAE. www.londonfashionweek.co.uk

MARIA GRACHVOGEL

JOHN ROCHA

RITA ORA WEARING BURBERRY

HOUSE OF HOLLAND

HOUSE OF HOLLAND

Image: PA Photo/M.A.C Cosmetics

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

BRUSH WITH AN EXPERT When a model struts her way onto the catwalk, the clothes are only half the story.

Backstage, she may have been in hair and make-up for two to three hours as the beauty teams preen, polish and perfect to create the image visualised by the designer.

V

al Garland is puppeteer of her make-up team, pulling the transformation strings. A top makeup artist for 27 years and with M.A.C Cosmetics since 1994, you may not have heard her name but you’ll undoubtedly have seen her work - in magazines, on television and at international fashion weeks. It’s day three of London Fashion Week and Sunday is anything but a day of rest for Garland. She is the key artist at nine shows but today she is juggling five backstages in just one day. From late model arrivals to dealing with indecisive designers, we shadow her day.

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Some make-up artists work quietly and seriously. Not Val Garland. After going to bed at midnight and getting up at 4.30am, Garland is the life and soul of the backstage party at the 6am ‘call-time’ for Preen while others are still rubbing the sleep from their eyes. Her temporary backstage home is made obvious by her trademark ‘Val Garland’ branded tape marking out her area. She describes the look 48 MARCH2013

for Preen as “delicate punk”, created using grey eyeshadow mixed with water to create a liquid liner, drawn in a sharp diagonal line on either the upper or lower lid. It’s modern and graphic but there were a few variations before getting to the final runway look as the designer switches from one line, to topand bottom line, before reverting back to one line. “The only way you can decide on the make-up is when you see it on the runway, under the lights,” says Garland. “I’m always there for pre-show rehearsal with the designer and stylist. We have a list of the models and I might say, ‘She’s too shiny’ or ‘I don’t like that’ or the designer says, ‘I love that’ and that’s how it works.”

shows, with the wind blowing in my hair as I take in the capital’s sights.” All of Val’s immediate crew are miked up with headsets so there’s no shouting between make-up stations. Just calm, orderly beautifying. The inspiration at Temperley is Hitchcock heroine Kim Novak, and it’s all about the eye with a bold liner. Although it’s a retro inspiration, Garland is adamant the eye shouldn’t look too Fifties. Using one of her prized possessions, an artist’s brush, she lines with fine precision using her statement glasses for close-ups. Garland dubs herself the ‘Queen of Brushes’ and estimates she has thousands in her total kit.

Temperley London

Vivienne Westwood

Time is tight between Preen’s finale and Garland’s 9.30am arrival for Temperley but luckily Val has a motorbike revving outside for her. “As the finale starts, I run outside, hop on the back of the bike and whizz to the next show,” she says. “It’s essential for getting to each backstage on time in traffic. “I love it because it’s a moment of relaxation between

The midday atmosphere backstage at Vivienne Westwood is frantic and highly-charged. The face chart is like the blueprint for the final look and this one resembles a Jean Cocteauinspired avant-garde painting. While some designers want to keep the focus entirely on the clothes, Vivienne Westwood’s makeup is always a masterpiece in itself. Today’s

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

TRIED & TESTED

Trend alert

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Our testers try three root-lifting hair saviours: Batiste XXL Volume Dry Shampoo, £3.99 (Boots/Superdrug) This Batiste XXL has magic root-boosting powers. Applied correctly, as well as mopping up greasy roots, it adds extreme volume. The texture is slightly gritty afterwards but it’s worth it for the big hair pay-off. The next best thing to a blow dry.

2/5

5/5

Get a head start on the beauty trends spotted backstage at London for next autumn/winter. Hot off the catwalks, courtesy of the backstage brigade:

This One Rescues Roots & Revamps Volumising Dry Shampoo, £3.99(Superdrug) I needed to use a generous amount of This One to rescue my limp, latherloving hair. Immediately after, it looks more presentable with extra volume in the roots but the results didn’t last long and I’m left wishing I’d shampooed and conditioned that morning instead.

reference is ‘Catherine Deneuve in Belle de Jour, shot by Helmut Newton’. The creative look is achieved using bright products like M.A.C’s Pro Chromalines in red, yellow and cyan. “It’s been a sea of grey and monochromes so far this season so it’s great to see colour and have some fun,” Garland enthuses. “I love working with Vivienne Westwood because as a make-up artist it’s all about ideas and I can go in there and really open up the toybox, throw all the toys in the air and see what sticks!” The show is due to start at 2pm and two late-running models sprint in at 2.05pm but Garland isn’t fazed. Four hairdressers, two make-up artists and two nail artists on each model and they’re ready in five minutes flat.

Mary Katrantzou US Vogue editor Anna Wintour is on the front row so the pressure is on for “beautiful superskin” that complements the clothes. The late-running Westwood show means Garland doesn’t arrive until 3pm and it’s a 4pm show but her proficient team has everything in hand and Garland greets the crowd of beauty press waiting to jot the show inspiration in their notepads, Tweet the looks and take videos of make-up artists in action. As well as overseeing the final make-up looks, Garland is story-teller of the designer’s vision. “I deal with the press, ensuring journalists get what they need for the story and talk about the products we’ve used to create the look,” she explains. “I’ve worked with M.A.C for so many years, they will make me a product if I need something specific.” Katrantzou’s busy designs are all about architecture and landscapes so Garland explains she’s keeping the make-up very pure. There’s an intriguing ‘ghostliness’ to models’ faces, created with a cellophanelook gloss on eyes and by highlighting bone structure to reflect under the high beam of the catwalk lights.

Marios Schwab It’s Garland’s last show of the day and her energy hasn’t waned in the slightest. The call-time is 5.30pm and she’s flaunting a glossy manicure to beauty journalists that she’s managed to squeeze in between shows.

“We’ve got a bit of a skin eruption going at Fashion Week so we’re bringing out the M.A.C Mineralize Concealer,” Garland teases, referring to the models’ skin that’s already feeling the strain of Fashion Week. She pulls out an iPhone from her Celine bag of essentials to reveal a snapshot of a beautiful medieval woman, the inspiration for the show. “It’s all about skin sculpture but in a much more modern way,” she reveals. “It’s medieval futurism!” The show time may be 8.30pm but it’s running 40 minutes late and Garland never packs up her make-up kit until the finale when the models take their final catwalk. But the show isn’t over for Garland. A quick recharge and then the action continues at Paris Fashion Week, but she shows no sign of backstage fatigue, saying: “I’m alongside make-up artists that have worked with me for years. They know what the Val-ism is - ‘Give me your magic!’”

Make-up “It feels like there’s a really big punk thing going on in London for A/ W13,” says Val Garland. “There are references for punk, skater girl and ‘really British’ with lashings of black and grey and very little colour.”

Image: PA Photo/M.A.C Cosmetics

5/5

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Refresh Dry Shampoo, £5.89 (Boots) My hair was embarrassingly greasy when I tried Volume Refresh and it absorbed the oil with ease. It gave my hair uplift and stopped it looking lank. Most impressively, the super-soft texture makes it look and feel freshly washed.

Nails “There’s definitely a more pared-down mood for A/W13,” says Revlon UK nail ambassador Jenny Longworth. “Crazy nail art has made way for simple, chic and graphic nails with details like texture or half-moon manis.”

Hair “This season it’s been all about matte textured hair,” says Toni&Guy Hair Meet Wardrobe ambassador Mark Hampton.

“It’s taking traditionally tailored classic hair but adding an edgy youthful look for a sense of toughness.”

MARCH2013 49

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

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It’s not sounding too good yet, is it? But now there is another solution – and one that involves no surgery, no anaesthetic or sedation, no scars, no compression garments, no downtime – and great results. It’s called CoolTech® Fat Freezing Technology and it is getting fantastic outcomes for people who just want to spot reduce stubborn areas.

How does it work?

You simply relax and read, listen to music or watch a movie and one or two suction cups are applied to the areas that are to be treated. It’s not painful so no anaesthetic is required. The fatty area is sucked into the cup and then the temperature is reduced gradually to -8°C. This won’t harm your skin, but will freeze the fat cells. The treatment lasts an hour and then your therapist will massage the area gently to smooth the contours out and you can drive home and carry on as normal.

Firstly, let’s get things straight, it’s not a magical cure for obesity, it works on localised pockets of stubborn fat that won’t go away, so love handles, chubby abdomens (hiding your six pack that you’ve worked so hard on), flanks and thighs. You’ll need to be within 10-15% of your ideal weight and have reasonable skin tone.

Secondly, it requires patience! There are no instant results as the fat cells will be emptied and your body’s natural system flushes the waste material away over time. Realistically it will be 4-6 weeks before you’ll see a difference,

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although this can be speeded up by lymphatic massage during the weeks following the treatment.

On the plus side the reduction is at a similar rate to that achieved by dedicated diet and exercise so all you friends won’t see a sudden difference.

The results are gradual and nobody need know you’ve had treatment to help you achieve that buff body! The effects will continue to work for up to six months so you’ll see your troublesome bulges smooth out to create the streamlined silhouette you want.

Is there a downside?

You’ll be a bit sore – like you’ve overdone things at the gym for a few hours afterwards, but otherwise the only downside is that it will take time to see the results. It won’t stop you regaining weight if you don’t eat sensibly and keep in shape. Even though some fat cells will be destroyed, nearby cells will still be active and can increase in size, so you will need to stick with your nutrition and exercise routine.

You’ll need to have reasonably good skin tone. For people who have lost a lot of weight and have loose skin, this isn’t the right treatment. To remove loose skin a tummy tuck is probably the only option, or for larger areas of fat removal, liposuction may be required.

There are some things it doesn’t do – it isn’t a cure for cellulite, so if you were hoping that this could get rid of that dimpled look – you should consider the Med Contour treatment already available at Riverbanks.

For more information call 01582 762 877 or visit www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk

FREEZE away your fat in just one hour!

Totally non-invasive with GREAT results!

BEFORE

AFTER

For a consultation in Hertfordshire or Harley Street call 0800 0325415 or visit www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk for more information.

Lower Harpenden Road, East Hyde Bedfordshire LU2 9QS • 100 Harley Street, London W1G 7JA

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

DR. HAUS’S

4 EYE-TECH SOLUTIONS 1

2

DEHYDRATED & CREPEY?

Restylane Vital

TIRED OF EYE BAGS & DARK CIRCLES?

Carboxytherapy

The thin, delicate skin around our eyes is a tell tale sign of age!

Dermatologist Dr Ariel Haus has an array of Eye-Tech solutions to quash speculation and banish those blinker bugbears…

3 Crowtox

JUST a 10 MINUTE treatment!

What?

Restylane Vital is a natural beauty treatment that gently replenishes Hyaluronic acid, reversing the tell-tale signs of ageing and creating a fresh, replenished & youthful skin appearance.

How? The clear gel is gently introduced into the skin in tiny amounts with an extra-fine needle creating a fresh, natural & more youthful appearance. The site is injected several times to ensure full coverage of the treatment area.

What?

The under eye treatment for treating dark circles commonly known as bags or panda eyes.

How? Carboxytherapy involves the injection of a small amount of carbon dioxide gas just beneath the skin’s surface delivering results by increased oxygen flow to the area.

Minimally invasive Pain- free No Down time Fast results (Between 2-4 treatments required.)

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EYELID OVER-HANG?

CO2RE Madonna Eye Lift 1 hour treatment

What?

A hit with the A-list stars, Botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox) smoothes the crows feet area of the eyes, rejuvenating and widening the eyes appearance.

How? Dr. Haus prides himself on his unique technique of strategically placing the muscle relaxant in this area, giving the client natural, discreet results- avoiding both the ‘frozen’ look and down time.

ALL TREATMENTS AVAIABLE AT

www.drhausdermatology.com

4

CROW’S FEET?

Call: 020 7467 1525

What?

The CO2RE Madonna eye lift is the non-surgical solution to improving drooping skin, wrinkles and signs of ageing around the eyes - in a single treatment.

How? The CO2RE fractional laser works on the upper dermis tightening the skin, reducing dark circles and elevating the eyebrow.

Results will continue to be seen up to 3 months after treatment as new collagen is formed.

10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

How I Discovered A Slimmer & Firmer Me in Just 4 weeks Sam Rosenberg reviews the Lipomassage at Bare Beauty Salon in Bushey

Before treatment

After trea tment

I

n the quest for the body beautiful I’m prepared to give any weird and wonderful slimming treatment a go. That’s not to say that I’m a beauty pushover – far from it! ! I approach claims of a quick fix with severe caution and cast a sceptical eye over all the photographic evidence before I commit myself. I have after all seen some very dubious before and after photos in my time!

However Lipomassage by Endermologie has the kudos of 110 scientific studies that prove this treatment is effective in eliminating stubborn fat and cellulite that is resistent to dieting. These studies have shown that Lipomassage activates fat cells via their receptors to trigger fat release. It also stimulates firming, breaks down fat accumulation, smooths the dimpled aspect of the skin and increases the fluid exchanges. What’s more the treatment is 100% natural, non invasive and pain free.

If that is not enough to get you reaching for the phone to book an appointment at Bare Beauty, perhaps a peek at the before and after pictures at the salon will, as these show some of the therapist who have experienced a course of this treatment (12 sessions over three weeks) and are the perfect example of the effectiveness! At last, before and after photos I can actually believe! On that evidence I needed no further persuading that this was the treatment for me and I committed to three treatments a week over a four week period.

explained this was due to the hard fat deposits on my thighs. I was impressed following the first session. I pulled up my skinny jeans with unprecedented ease – there was no struggle no wiggle to get them on and no sustained intake of breath to get them done up. So far so good.

By week two my husband looked at me and said “wow”. Then he added “you look great”. I looked over my shoulder and then realised he really was talking about me.

Stacey photographed me again at six weeks and it was hard to know who was happier when looking at the results! I could see a real difference in just six sessions.

At week three I could see a huge reduction in cellulite and my bottom appeared rounder and lifted. The skin on my legs was really smooth and I was fitting much more comfortably in my jeans.

By week four the comparison between my first and third photo really was remarkable.

If you are dreaming of changing your shape, toning up and banishing cellulite then Lipomassage is for you. It’s also a particularly effective treatment on the love-handles area for men.

Bare Beauty is hosting a demonstration evening from My first involved talking about the specific areas I 6pm to 9pm on Tuesday, March 26 from 6pm you can wanted to target and having my photograph taken (a watch or experience treatments. Free sessions will also second photo is taken half way through the treatment be available on all courses booked on that evening. and then another at the end) before you move on to the 45 minutes treatment. I found the area on To book a personal consultation call Bare Beauty my thighs uncomfortable when treated but on my stomach it was strangely relaxing, Stacey my therapist Salon, High Street, Bushey on 0208 950 4500.

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108 Medical Chambers at 108 Harley Street is a consultant-led and delivered independent clinic offering the highest standards of professional care with a minimum of delay in relaxing and friendly surroundings.

MEDICAL CHAMBERS 108 HARLEY STREET LONDON WIG 7ET

The specialist clinics located at 108 Harley Street are:

The London Breast Clinic – Fully integrated breast care service for all benign and malignant disease with on site digital mammography, ultrasound, cytology and core biopsy allowing rapid diagnosis. Breast screening, genetic and family review also available on site.

The London Skin Clinic – Experts offer same day consultation and surgery under local anaesthetic for conditions including melanoma, skin cancer, cysts and other benign lesions, together with diagnosis and treatment of general dermatological conditions.

The Gilmore Groin and Hernia Clinic – Over 30 years’ experience of the diagnosis and treatment for sportsmen and sportswomen with Groin Disruption / Sportsman’s Groin (Gilmore’s Groin) and adductor injuries, together with herniae of all types both primary and recurrent. Both open and laparoscopic repair are available as appropriate.

The London Rectal Clinic – Expert opinion and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, malignant and benign disease of the colon and rectum including rectal bleeding, haemorrhoids, pilonidal sinus, fissure and fistula. Bowel cancer screening is also available.

The London Sports Injury Clinic – A cutting edge, multidisciplinary service that specialises in non surgical solutions for sports and orthopaedic injuries. In addition the clinic focuses on human performance and wellness. “You don’t have to be a professional athlete to be treated like one”.

108 X-ray and Imaging – Rapid access to full field digital mammography, ultrasound and where appropriate needle aspiration cytology or core biopsy.

A full range of plain film investigations, general ultrasound including abdominal, gynaecological and small part imaging. A full breast screening service is also available.

For more information visit: www.108harleystreet.co.uk Telephone

Facsimile

Email

Web

020 7563 1234

020 7563 1212

info@108harleystreet.co.uk

www.108harleystreet.co.uk

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Riverbanks Clinic Success It’s hardly surprising that the Riverbanks Clinic team are glowing with achievement; they don’t seem to be able to leave any awards ceremony without a trophy! The latest addition to their trophy cabinet is the Professional Beauty Award 2013 for the Best Medical Aesthetic Clinic.

“We were so delighted when we were announced winners,” says Dr Ravi Jain, medical director and owner of the Clinic. “It’s a team effort – and I’m lucky to have really top notch team – everyone plays their part in treating and looking after our patients.” So what are Dr Jain’s tips on how to win awards?

“Give your patients a five star platinum service – people like to be looked after and we like to look after them, they are the lifeblood of our practice.”

“Everyone is an individual and it’s important to listen to what they want – and then do your best to ensure they get it.”

“Don’t cut corners – many of our suppliers are award winners too. Low cost usually means low value and you really can’t afford that in our business.”

“Keep up to date. There’s new technology and techniques coming out all the time, to stay ahead of our competitors we need to ensure 56 MARCH2013

we have the latest of what is available. That’s why we are not only experts in the treatments we offer, but we also lecture and teach other medical practitioners in some of the techniques too.”

“Don’t be shy about promoting what you do. We’re really proud of our track record and we are happy to tell people about our awards. It gives them confidence that they are dealing with the best.”

These strategies have been really successful for Riverbanks Clinic and are good advice for anyone in business – and definitely good news for all the Riverbanks loyal patients, who know they are getting the best there is. No wonder the Riverbanks Clinic team are on top of the world – they’ve proven they deserve to be there.

About Riverbanks Clinic Riverbanks Clinic opened in September 2008 at East Hyde, near Harpenden in Hertfordshire in its own dedicated premises.

Dr Ravi Jain leads a team of resident and visiting physicians and aestheticians.

For more information please contact Dr Ravi Jain on 01582 762877 or email rj@riverbanksclinic.co.uk.

H OUS E & GA R D E N

EXPERIENCE THE JOY OF LIFE IN THE GARDEN SATURDAY 23RD MARCH 1100AM -1900PM & SUNDAY 24TH MARCH 1100AM – 1800PM

S

Come and celebrate the start of spring at a new Easter Garden Show.

ummer is just around the corner and we can start looking forward to outside living. To celebrate the start of the spring season, Crown Pavilions with Easigrass, one of the world’s best manufacturers of artificial grass (and 2012 Chelsea Flower Show Gold Award winners) and Tendercare, the specialist plant nursery (multiple award winners & Nursery Stock Grower of the Year Millennium Award), have created a ‘life in the garden’ experience to demonstrate all the joy and pleasure that garden living can bring. For two days on Saturday 23rd March and Sunday 24th March, they are staging a new Easter Garden Show at Tendercare in Uxbridge, Middlesex. This will be the first real opportunity of the year to meet real professionals, discuss ideas for design, get gardening tips and free advice and, most importantly, have a fun day out. Also, joining the

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event will be Aston Martin Stratstone Amersham who will be presenting their latest models, including the flagship new Vanquish.

The multiple Award Winning Pool & Spa Company will also exhibit at this luxury event and will have a number of their Hydropool hot tubs on display. Their experts will also be in attendance to answer questions and if you are interested in having a new swimming pool, swim spa, sauna or the finest hot tubs on the market this is an event, not to be missed!

Luke Dejahang, Managing Director of Crown Pavilions, explains “Bringing together Easigrass, Tendercare and Aston Martin Stratstone creates a unique partnership between all the brands showcased at

H OUS E & GA R D E N

ASTON MARTIN TIMELINE the event. We have all come together to demonstrate quality, luxury, unparalleled service and attention to detail.”

Crown Pavilions manufacture a whole range of garden rooms which can feature outdoor kitchens or barbecues, sitting rooms with plasma screens, studies with storage and internet connection, screens or fold-back doors to protect you from the weather, mood lighting for evening entertainment, heating, hot tubs, home gyms.

Crown Pavilions can create a wide range of buildings for a variety of requirements, all of which will enhance your use of outside space, whether it be leisurely breakfasts with the family early evening drinks with friends, lunches and dinners, or just a private, quiet sanctuary.

One of the most important aspects of garden rooms is the landscaping. Luke Dejahang, explains “When we install a garden room we are especially mindful of the landscaping around it. We look after every aspect of planting and creating a beautiful setting which fits in with your existing garden. By partnering with Easigrass we can show how our garden rooms can work in conjunction with low maintenance, safe and beautiful artificial grass to create exceptional and stylish outdoor environments. Tendercare are an award-winning specialist plant nursery with an unrivalled range of mature and specimen trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants, all of

which will enhance the landscaping around our garden rooms.”

At the Easter Garden Show advice and insight will be available from RHS experts in soft landscaping who have worked on some of the most prestigious projects from Royal weddings to some of the finest country estates in the UK, small city gardens and city roof terraces.

The Aston Martin Stratstone team will be on hand to talk through their current range and show the power, beauty and soul that creates an Aston Martin.

Crown Pavilions have created some wonderful garden rooms for many UK and international clients. They specialise in providing a tailored, bespoke service.

‘We will be serving complimentary canapés and drinks all day’ said Luke Dejahang, ‘and there will be plenty of luxury products to view and buy from sculptures and themed landscaped show gardens to new products not yet launched. We are looking forward to welcoming everyone who is interested in sharing this outdoor living experience.’

Tickets will be free but spaces will be limited.

Call 01895544190 to register for a free ticket. www.eastergardenshow.co.uk

MARCH2013 59

H OUS E & GA R D E N

N AT I O N A L B E D M O N T H , M A R C H 2 0 1 3

ARE YOU SLEEPING ON THE RIGHT BED?

T

he right bed is extremely important to our health and wellbeing because our sleeping environment will affect the quality of our sleep – which in turn has a big effect on how well we feel, both physically and psychologically. A bed with the correct support, comfort and space will ensure you wake less, move about less, are less disturbed by your partner and are less likely to wake up feeling tired or aching.

So, what is the right bed? It’s not easy to make specific recommendations.

There’s such a huge choice on the market place and the key deciding factor – is it comfortable – is such a subjective measure. “All we can do is give people an overview of the different types of bed available and tips on how to go about the process of choosing the right bed for them,” explains Sleep Council spokesperson Jessica Alexander.

The Sleep Council was set up to provide an independent source of advice on bed buying – as well as to raise awareness of the importance of getting a good night’s sleep to health and wellbeing.

According to The Sleep Council, Goldilocks had the right idea: the right bed’s neither too soft nor too hard – but it suits everyone’s very individual needs. First and foremost it must give you correct support and comfort – but individuals might also have to consider factors such as back pain, allergies, breathing problems, available budget, whether a type of mattress makes you too hot, storage or space requirements: not to mention style preferences.

Size is important. The most common British double bed size of 4ft 6in x 6ft 3in (135cm x 190cm) really isn’t big enough for two to sleep well without disturbing each other: studies have shown that more space – even a slight move up to a 5ft x 6ft 6in (150cm x 200cm) King size bed – can make a lot of difference to night-time comfort.

Always consider both the mattress and its support, whether divan base or

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bedstead. They work together to create the overall feel and performance of a bed, with different combinations producing differing results. If you are not buying a base and mattress from the same supplier, make sure the mattress is suitable for use with the type of support you are considering: if you don’t, lack of durability could be a problem, with no comeback to the supplier.

There are many types – and prices of beds – from which to choose, each offering their own features and benefits. Mattresses come with various types of internal spring unit – open coil, pocket sprung or continuous springing – in ordinary foam, visco-elastic or latex foam, filled with cotton or other fibres (futons!).

You should spend as much as you can afford on a new bed – it’s probably one of the most important investments you’ll make, not just for your home but also for your own wellbeing! Remember, every £100 you spend represents just 2.7p a night over 10 years.

Once you’ve got your new bed, do remember that it won’t stay wonderful forever – beds get a lot of wear and tear! Over time, your comfort and support needs change, too. Do the Bed MOT test once a year – National Bed Month, which runs throughout March, is a good time to consider the state of your bed and your sleep and comfort quality.

Visit www.sleepcouncil.com to take the Bed MOT, New Bed Profile, reach bed-buying and sleep tips, and watch videos that help people sleep better or select the right bed for them.

The Sleep Council is a generic organisation which seeks to promote the importance of a good night’s sleep to health and wellbeing and the advantages associated with a comfortable bed, regularly replaced. In addition to advice on how to get a good night’s sleep, the Sleep Council provides tips on choosing the right bed. The Sleep Council is funded by the bed industry.

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Design that echoes your desire Simple, elegant and sophisticated are all phases that epitomise the Mossini brand. Perfect in proportion and manufactured by craftsmen, our designs echo the European desire for minimalistic bathroom furniture.

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he use of unique construction materials enhances the desirability of our bathroom furniture which embodies traditional construction techniques fused with modern design flair. The Mossini bathroom collection now exemplifies all that is desirable in a brand.

Why use us?

One Design... Choose exceptional style and explore innovative designs.

Created using the finest materials and superior production techniques, Mossini bathroom cabinetry offers you the very best value and quality for your unique bathroom designs One Quality... Coated Plywood is the ideal material for the base construction of a bathroom cabinet. Strong, robust, durable, and by far the best material for bathroom cabinets, we do not believe you should compromise on quality by using inferior chipboard or MDF cabinets.

One For Detail... All our cabinets come with the added benefit of soft close hinges and soft close drawers. This combination of material and construction puts our plywood range in front as a market leader in quality, design and construction.

One Planet... Our products are all checked and have FSC accreditation. Along with exceptional value and design, we can assure you, that you are helping the environment too.

The Plywood Collection When choosing quality furniture there can be no better choice than our Plywood collection. As the name implies the quality is built in to the furniture. Plywood is the perfect choice for the client looking for quality, durability, strength, with an interest in eco-friendly products and sources.

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Plywood is made from solid wood and far stronger than alterna-tives such as MDF or particle boards.

By cross laminating, plywood is even stronger than solid wood and does not show signs of shrinkage, swelling or splitting with a much higher strength to weight ratio. This makes the use of plywood the first choice where strength, flexibility, durability are key elements in the choice of material. During its manufacture, plywood creates far less wastage than the sawing of solid wood for furniture construction resulting in the conservation of timber.

Why Plywood ?

Less wastage Environment friendly Stronger than MDF or particle board Quality alternative to traditional products Ideally suited for a bathroom environment All our sources hold FSC certification. By choosing FSC products you can be assured our timber products come from managed sources and comply with environmental social and economic standards. FSC labels guarantee that trees are harvested and are replaced or allowed to regenerate naturally and parts of the forest are protected entirely.

For more information about Mossini Bathrooms Call on 0845 4599300 or email sales@mossinibathrooms.com Head Office Bridge house, 25 Fiddlebridge Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL10 0SP Showroom Unit 4, Spring Valley Business Centre, Potters Wood, St Albans, AL3 6PD www.mossinibathrooms.com

Your project.

From beginning to end...

Building perfect pools for over thirty years. Ring Origin on 01895 823366 or email for our information pack info@originleisure.com www.originleisure.com

Origin leisure

the original indoor outdoor pool company

&

H OUS E & GA R D E N

SLEEP WELL with Feather & Black’s Watford Showroom

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eather & Black is the ultimate destination for inspirational bedrooms, style trends and beautiful furniture collections. We love all things sleep related and our staff will help you on your way to a great night’s sleep, all night, every night. With stunning beds and bedroom furniture, luxury mattresses, super soft bedlinen and accessories; you can create a beautiful home for you and your family.

Paul Clayton, Store Manager of Watford says, “We enjoy holding these busy and exciting events in our store and offering our customers exclusive discounts throughout the week. With our discounts extending across all of our ranges, it is the perfect time to shop. Our collections have grown this spring to include even more beautiful items to take away to freshen up your home.”

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Create a fun and stylish room for the little ones too. Feather & Black’s kids ranges can work perfectly as a happily ever after princess bedroom or as a base camp for boisterous boys. Our latest Finn collection is a sturdy design and can withstand kids playing and jumping – and it’s an ideal range for children to grow up with into their teens.

Enjoy up to 40% off our beautiful bedroom collections in store. Plus for one week only from Monday 11th to Sunday 17th March 2013, visit our Watford showroom to receive up to 20% off* in store prices.

To order visit us in store or call 01923 831871 Feather & Black Watford, Located within Multiyork, 38 The Parade, Watford, WD17 1AZ www.featherandblack.com

Uniquely designed to fit into existing timber frames or direct to brick or stone Accurately replicate your traditional style windows Available in over 200 RAL colours Installed by our own craftsmen Full consultation service

Conservation by design

01494 730 400 www.thwc.co.uk 15 Gregories Road, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 1HH Opening hours 9am - 5pm Monday to Saturday

FA M I LY L AW

The Increasing Popularity of Life Interest Trusts

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rotecting the inheritance of immediate family members is becoming increasingly important in the context of second marriages following either divorce or the death of the first spouse.

Katie Khakpour-Smith, a solicitor in Taylor Walton’s Private Client team, considers how life interest trusts can help protect family wealth.

Divorce or the early death of a spouse often results in family wealth being quickly disseminated due to the pressure of conflicting loyalties on those who remarry or survive. As a result, family wealth, which would once have been kept within the tight nucleus of immediate family members, is suddenly spread across a more extended family.

For anyone involved in a second marriage or civil partnership it may be important for the person preparing a will to provide for their new spouse or partner and at the same time ensure that the children of their previous relationship(s) are still the main beneficiaries of their estate. Interestingly, the Office of National Statistics shows that the divorce rate of the over-60s is on the increase. Given this age group are more likely to be “cash-rich”, having had longer to pay off their mortgages and accumulate assets from their parents, it is even more important to ensure that their wills are drafted to ensure that the assets which they have spent a lifetime accumulating pass in the direction they would want them to on their death.

Where an early death has occurred, it may have been a concern of the deceased that their husband or wife would go on to remarry and have a second family. The deceased may have been worried that his or her estate would not be ring-fenced for the benefit of the surviving spouse and the children of their marriage and could in the future be used for the benefit of their widow or widower’s new family.

If you are concerned that your spouse could remarry in the future were you to die prematurely or that he or she may not be financially responsible by frittering away your assets so there is nothing left for your children, a life interest trust is a useful instrument to include in your will. A life interest trust will allow you to make provision for your surviving spouse but still ensure that the bulk of the estate is ring-fenced for the benefit of your children.

Under a life interest trust, any income generated by the trust assets is paid to the surviving spouse. The spouse therefore has an outright entitlement to the income but not to the capital of the trust fund. Consequently it needs to be considered if there is sufficient income for the surviving spouse to live on, if this is what is intended. If a property also forms part of the assets of the trust, the spouse is entitled to continue to occupy the property for the remainder of his or her lifetime (or, if the will is drafted in such a way, until remarriage or cohabitation with another person).

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If desirable, powers can be granted to the trustees of the trust so that they can release capital sums to the spouse outright when deemed necessary. This means that the trustees have the flexibility to respond to unforeseen circumstances which require the surviving spouse to have access to capital sums. In hand with this, if these powers are included in the drafting of the life interest trust arrangement, it would be advisable for the person making the will to also prepare a “letter of wishes” setting out guidance to the trustees about the circumstances when they would want the trustees to consider releasing capital to the surviving spouse.

Who you choose as trustees could be crucial; you need to ensure that you appoint individuals who you trust to follow your wishes.

Clearly life interest trusts are a useful way of retaining some control over your assets after death and ensuring that the bulk of the assets eventually pass outright to the beneficiaries that you wish to inherit them. There are however some disadvantages to their use.

Life interest trust without the inclusion of powers to appoint capital to the surviving spouse are inflexible and may result in harsh consequences for the surviving spouse. This is often seen as exerting control from beyond the grave.

Some surviving spouses may be very unhappy about only being entitled to income and a right to occupy the property. The spouse may resent the long-stop beneficiaries (most commonly the children of the deceased) who will eventually be entitled to the assets without restriction.

Nevertheless, in order to retain some control over the assets which you have spent a lifetime building up, the inclusion of a life interest trust within your will would be a sensible arrangement to consider. With the option of including powers to release capital to the surviving spouse, life interest trusts represent a good way of providing for a spouse whilst still ring-fencing assets for the benefit of your children.

Independent legal directory, The Legal 500, ranks Taylor Walton’s Private Client department as one of only four premier firms of solicitors in the Beds, Bucks, Herts and Middlesex region for wills, probate and tax saving strategies. We are particularly experienced in dealing with complex tax planning arrangements and family issues.

If you would like advice or assistance in relation to inheritance tax planning and will writing then please contact Katie Khakpour-Smith of Taylor Walton on 01582 714188 or email to katie.khakpour-smith@taylorwalton.co.uk

Bartlett Tree Experts A Complete and Comprehensive Tree Care Service since 1907 For over 100 years, Bartlett Tree Experts has led both the science and services that make your landscape thrive. No matter the size or scope of your needs, our arborists bring a rare mix of groundbreaking research, global resources and a local service approach to every task at hand. Trees add so much value to our lives; Bartlett adds even more value to your trees.

Tree & Shrub Pruning . Planting . Tree Removal Tree Stock Surveys . Woodland Management Health & Safety Reports . Disease & Insect Control

For a free quotation please call your local arborists, Mark Davis & Kevin Woodham

01707 649 018 radlett@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

Your family wealth matters

For expert advice on conveyancing & everything you need to keep moving house simple

Our experience in the use of wills and trusts can help protect your family wealth for future generations.

Effective Solutions for Individuals Call 01727 845245 or visit www.taylorwalton.co.uk Offices at: Luton, Harpenden & St Albans

M F EOTO AT URRSE

First Drive:

Lamborghini aventaDor roaDster LP700-4 The latest set of wheels are taken for a spin.

This week: Lamborghini Aventador Roadster LP700-4

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an you ever have too much of a good thing? There are those who seem pretty confident that there is no such thing as too much. How else could you explain the existence of the Lamborghini Aventador Roadster LP700-4; even the name is longer than the Coupé on which it is based. The burning enthusiasm that rages down in Sant’Agata has resulted in a drop-top version of its incredible supercar, which gives you more of pretty much everything.

6.5-litre V12 engine that debuted in the fixed-roof version, pumping out a spectacular 691bhp. The roof system also helps keep the weight down; with that plus a little body strengthening the Roadster is a mere 50kg heavier, and as a result it can post 3.0 seconds for the 0-62mph sprint and bash past the 200mph mark. Lamborghini claims that the Roadster posts exactly the same lap times around its test circuit as the Coupé, so you can sleep safe in the knowledge you’ve not compromised yourself around the racetrack in the name of open-air fun.

There’s the looks for starters. The Aventador Coupé is hardly a wallflower, but the Roadster has a few tricks of its own. For starters it has to accommodate some sort of roof mechanism, so at the back where there is normally a slated window there are two hexagonal windows into the engine bay. The roof itself comes in two pieces of carbonfibre, and although at launch they’re coloured matte black other colour options will be available later. To remove them you have to tilt the seat forward, release a catch, pull the panel out of position and stash it in the boot at the front. You could argue that’s a bit of a faff (and you’d be right) but the alternative would compromise the car’s looks, and a fabric roof would not handle 217mph.

Unusually for a supercar drive, Lamborghini let us loose around a circuit first before trying the Aventador on the road but it gave us the opportunity to savour the performance in full flow. Idling down the pit lane it’s hard not to be a little intimidated given the huge amount of power and the whopping price tag, but after only a few corners it’s clear to see that it is actually a remarkably friendly device. There’s four-wheel drive spinning away beneath you to keep the power in check, and the Sport and Corse modes (selectable on the centre console) not only alter the operation of the ESP and the gearbox but also the power split between front and rear.

Yes, the Aventador Roadster is not a fraction slower than its Coupé counterpart. Under those little windows there is the same satanical

Select the most aggressive Corse mode and the Aventador feels pinned to the track, and allows you to get on the power early out of

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the bends and simply rocket down the straights. Even in the tighter bends where the weight should count against it the Aventador feels surprisingly nimble too; the steering is packed with feel and the carbonfibre brakes remain strong lap after lap, even slowing down from over 150mph. Switch to the Sport mode and there’s an increased power bias to the rear (90% as opposed to 80%) which makes the tail a little more happy to swing, but even then it is far less demanding to drive than you might imagine. And all the while the glorious V12 is wailing away behind your head, and with the roof up you can still lower the little rear window to allow the incredible sounds to flow more easily into the cabin.

After the track came the road drive, and a quick look at the map revealed just why; Miami may be the playground of the rich and famous but it doesn’t have a twisty road for miles in every direction.

However a cruise along Ocean Drive revealed the other reason why you’d want to buy one; people love this car. Some other rival marques might not enjoy the same universal approval that the Aventador got, thanks to its sheer outlandishness. The maximum possible speed on Ocean Drive is about 15mph, but the crowd along the street waved, applauded, wanted their picture taken with it and were calling out for us to rev the engine. One guy raced out into the middle of the road

and offered us a free lunch if we parked the Aventador outside his restaurant; that’s the kind of response it provokes.

And that’s exactly why you’d buy one. At almost £300,000 it won’t be your only car and if you have that much to spend you’re unlikely to be much of a wallflower yourself. Its rivals seem a bit plain and straightforward in comparison - this is a proper, outlandish, cartoonlike Lamborghini supercar that can still do the boring stuff too.

Facts at a glance Lamborghini Aventador Roadster LP700-4, £294,665 Engine: Transmission: Performance: Economy: Emissions:

6.5-litre petrol unit producing 691bhp and 508lb.ft of torque Seven-speed automatic gearbox driving a ll four wheels Top speed 217mph, 0-62mph in 3.0 seconds 17.6mpg combined 370g/km

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ROYAL CONNAUGHT PARK BUSHEY, HERTFORDSHIRE

To redevelop listed buildings for domestic use is no mean feat, yet Comer Homes have restored and revitalized this classic building sympathetically whilst at the same time creating imaginative and modern living spaces...

Prices start from ÂŁ355,000 - ÂŁ815,000 for 1,2,3, and 4 bedroom apartments MARCH2013 71

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THE VERY BEST OF MODERN LIVING A MOST PRESTIGIOUS COLLECTION OF JUST 8 HIGHLY SPECIFIED 2 AND 3 BEDROOM LUXURY APARTMENTS AND PENTHOUSES NESTLED IN THE LEAFY SUBURB OF ENFIELD

E L E G A N T I N T E R I O R S W I T H S T A T E - O F - T H E - A RT F E A T U R E S

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FEATURES INCLUDE: GATED UNDERGROUND PARKING, CONCIERGE SERVICE, UNDERFLOOR HEATING, INDIVIDUAL PRIVATE GARDENS / LARGE TERRACES, BESPOKE DESIGNED LIFT TO ALL FLOORS.

Prices from £895,000 S O L E S E L L I N G AG E N T S

B AY V I E W HOUSE

WINNER

www.yogogroup.com

0800 500 3050 B AY V I E W H O U S E

020 8441 9555 2 0 U P L A N D S P A R K RO A D

ENFIELD

EN2 7PG

OVER 75% NO W OCCUP IED!

HERTFORD SG13 8FE

Magnificent Set in 63 acres, join the most exclusive address in Hertford • High specification • Lifts to all levels • Secure car parking • Great commuter links 2 bedroom apartments from only £299,995

LEGAL FEES PAID

WE’LL HELP SELL YOUR HOME! AGENTS FEES PAID MANAGED PROPERTY MARKETING

Marketing Suite & Show Homes open 7 days a week 10am - 5.00pm Selling Agent

2 Market Street, Hertford SG14 1BD

Please call:

0845 241 7758

Email: ballspark@exploreliving.co.uk or visit www.exploreliving.co.uk Photography of Balls Park. Prices correct at time of going to print.

A development by

From Cottages to Country Estates

FOR OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF PROPERTIES WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.STATONS.COM

RADLETT

£2,495,000

7 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 7 Bathrooms Approx. 4,300 sq ft Mature Gardens Detached Double Garage Extensive Parking

LETCHMORE HEATH

£1,695,000

ARKLEY

£1,595,000

3 Bedrooms Stunning 40ft Reception Room 3 Bathrooms Approx. 3000sq ft Recently Refurbished South Facing Garden Single Garage

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Chain Free Private Road Gated Development Panoramic Views Rear Garden with Terrace Area Double Garage Off Street Parking

RADLETT OFFICE 01923 604 321

RADLETT OFFICE 01923 604 321

BARNET OFFICE 020 8449 3383

HADLEY WOOD £1,595,000

WHETSTONE £1,400,000

MILL HILL £1,295,000

6 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 4 Bathrooms Chain Free Gated Development Rear Garden Double Garage

5 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Carriage Driveway Off Street Parking South Facing Garden

4 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Prominent Corner Plot Stunning Views

HADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

TOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

TOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

NEWGATE STREET VILLAGE £1,294,950

NEW BARNET £1,250,000

BROOKMANS PARK

5 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Grade II Listed Part Of Georgian Manor house ‘Tolmers Park’ Origional Period Features Communal Gardens & Grounds

BROOKMANS PARK OFFICE 01707 661144

4 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Integral Garage Off Street Parking Stunning Rear Garden with Log Cabin/Hot Tub/Sauna

BARNET OFFICE 020 8449 3383

£1,160,000

Oakgates, 5 Kentish Lane. We are acting in the sale of the above property and have received an offer of £1,160,000 on the above property. Any interested parties must submit any higher offers in writing to the selling agent before exchange of contracts takes place.

BROOKMANS PARK OFFICE 01707 661144

SALES OFFICES AT: BARNET 020 8449 3383 TOTTERIDGE 020 8445 3694 HADLEY WOOD 020 8440 9797 BROOKMANS PARK 01707 661144 RADLETT 01923 604321 NEW HOMES SHOWCASE HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9555 PREMIER LETTINGS HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9796

www.statons.com Associated Offices in Mayfair & Moscow

P R O P E RT Y

GALLEY LANE, ARKLEY

A magnificent, newly refurbished property boasting superior specification throughout and providing extensive accommodation to three floors set in 0.38 acres with landscaped rear garden containing heated swimming pool and pool house, and an impressive frontage.

Located in this semi-rural position, close to golf course and Equestrian facility, this stunning 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom home is of contemporary design with a strong emphasis on quality and state-of-the-art technology.

Further enhanced by 29’ x 21’ formal reception, outstanding Neil Lerner kitchen/breakfast room – and to the 2nd floor, a games/play room of 36’ in length – amongst a wealth of other attributes and superb finishes.

Some of the many other features include L arge front drive with electronic gate and front lawn E xpansive terrace created with outdoor large Italian porcelain non-slip tiles to match the open plan living room.

A luminium Bi-Fold large size rear doors H RS system throughout house providing continuous fresh air L ED lighting

76 MARCH2013

interior designed bathrooms (4 en suite). All suites with fitted wardrobes.

5 U nderfloor heating to ground floor (incl integral garage) D ay/night vision CCTV cameras to front, rear and side of house Approved alarm system with keypad entry and swipe on each floor HD TV’s to breakfast room, master suite, built-in unit to living room.

W aterproof aqua vision digital tv to master bathroom Guide price £2,250,000 FREEHOLD

For further information or an appointment to view, please contact Real Estates on 020 8445 3132 or email info@realestates-wsp.co.uk

OCTAVE HOUSE

ARKLEY LANE | ARKLEY | EN5 3JR

YO U R D E S T I N AT I O N This magnificent five bedroom family residence stands imposingly behind a double gated entrance on a quiet rural lane, a short distance from Barnet Road, Arkley. Superb transport links, schools and local shops are all within a short drive.

Designed to the highest specification, this light and airy property boasts a spacious open plan kitchen, dining and family room with bi-folding doors opening onto the garden.

The music room, situated on the ground floor and the master bedroom suite on the first floor are both octagonally shaped rooms. The master bedroom suite features a generous en-suite, walk in dressing room and stunning views of open countryside. There is a further master suite, two double bedrooms and a family bathroom, and a games/media room and guest suite located on the second floor.

Octave House, Arkley Lane, Arkley. Not just a beautiful home, it could be your destination.

PRICE ÂŁ2,750,000 www.cgdltd.co.uk

Chase Green Developments Ltd

Call 020 8445 3132 or vist www.realestates-wsp.co.uk Viewing by appointment only.

Prices and details are correct at time of going to press.

HAVE YOU GOT LAND WITH DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL? We’ve Got Buyers Land is in huge demand so we can find the right buyer for your site quickly, discretely and advise you on the best method of sale.

We’ll get you the best price and terms that suit your needs and timescale.

Call us today for a free initial consultation or book an appointment at your local April LAND CLINIC 01582 461581 LAND Unlock your potential

INDEPENDENT LAND OFFICE

As specialists, we have a proven track record so we can help you maximise and unlock the value of your land.

Lance Trendall heads up The Land Office and is described at “one of the most experienced agents around”.

We specialise in residential development land in prime locations.

Call us quickly before the new Community Infrastructure Levy is introduced as this may damage the value of your land.

THE LAND OFFICE

lance@thelandoffice.co.uk

01582 461581 www.thelandoffice.co.uk

WE CAN HELP YOU BUY A NEW HOME

FRESH, EXCITING AND NEW CENTRAL HARPENDEN

Special Off-Plan Price Available

Close to shops, schools and station. Buy off-plan and choose your dream kitchen and other fittings. EPC Rating B (88)

HARPENDEN

Price On Application

Four bedroom semis with bathroom plus 2 en-suites. EPC Rating B (84)

AMERSHAM

Price On Application

NORTHWOOD

Luxury new home on four floors with natural light to lower ground floor.

4000sq ft EPC Rating B (88)

Price On Application

Large new home ready for occupation even the broadband is live so you have everything you need. EPC Rating B (88)

Find out about buying an energy efficient new home

NEW HOMES OFFICE

info@newhomesoffice.co.uk

01582 461581 www.newhomesoffice.co.uk

The award-winning agency . . . where integrity counts. www.martyngerrard.co.uk

SALES

OAKLEIGH PARK NORTH, WHETSTONE, N20 9AS.

A 4 bedroom extended semi-detached family home is situated in Oakley Park. Ideally located within walking distance of Totteridge & Whetstone tube station and Sh’arei Tsedelc North London Reform Synagogue.

£749,995 FREEHOLD

THE OWNERS LOVE... “The frontage to our house is very large which means we can park several cars on the driveway which has come in very useful” “Oakleigh Park Station is only a quarter of a mile away which is ideal for getting into town” “The neighbourhood here is very nice and there is a strong sense of community” WE’VE NOTICED... The outlook to the rear of the property is very private and not overlooked.

Whetstone High Road is only a third of a mile away.

The property really is a must see and all appointments are to be made via the sole selling agent.

Please contact Damien Ellison at the WHETSTONE OFFICE on 020 8446 2111

The award-winning agency . . . where integrity counts. www.martyngerrard.co.uk

SALES

WOOD STREET, EN5

Five bedroom semi detached family property with many period features.

THE OWNERS LOVE... “The property has a great feel about the place and has all its original features” “Private garden is very tranquil far enough away from the main road with the only sound being the birds singing” “Great location near to transport links, great local schools and a private side road for off street parking” WE’VE NOTICED... Good sized garage located at the rear of the garden.

EPC rating – E

Please contact Warren Price at the HIGH BARNET on 020 8440 2444

£1,250,000 FREEHOLD

P R O P E RT Y

TOTTERIDGE COMMON TOTTERIDGE, LONDON

H

ighcroft is a stunning family home that has been sympathetically extended by the current owners, the house is presented to an exemplary standard and offers spacious accommodation ideal for family occupation. The landscaped grounds are a particular feature of the property, being approximately 2.9 acres with extensive patio areas and heated outdoor swimming pool.

Highcroft is located in a Conservation Area on Totteridge Common. The house and gardens offer a tranquil rural setting yet within close proximity to Central London. The Thames Link rail service at Mill Hill goes in to Kings Cross. The Underground at Totteridge & Whetstone has services to Kings Cross and Moorgate in similar times. Locally to Totteridge there are a number of excellent schools, both independent and State. These include Mill Hill School and its preparatory school, Belmont; Harrow School; Haberdashers Askes Boys School; Highgate School; UCS; Queen Elizabeth Barnet; North London Collegiate, Henrietta Barnet and Channing. There are a number of recreational facilities in the area, including golf at South Herts, tennis at Totteridge Tennis Club and cricket at Totteridge Cricket Club.

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Accommodation Reception hall drawing room family room dining room cinema room gymnasium kitchen/breakfast room staff kitchen master bedroom with dressing room & en suite 7 further bedrooms (3 with en suite) family bathroom laundry room cloakroom staff accommodation comprising; 2 reception rooms, 1 bedroom & shower room garaging outbuildings gardens EPC rating = E Guide price ÂŁ7.5m

For further information or if you would like to arrange an appointment to view please call Savills Barnet on 020 8447 4400 or email barnet@savills.com. Alternatively you can visit the website at www.savills.com.

Savills Barnet 143 High Street Barnet EN5 5UZ

020 8447 4400 barnet@savills.com

savills.co.uk

HADLEY WOOD, barnet 2 reception rooms ø kitchen ø 2 bedrooms ø bathroom ø cellar ø car port ø garden ø EPC rating = D

Guide £699,950 Freehold

NEWGATE STREET VILLAGE, hertfordshire 3 reception rooms ø kitchen/breakfast room ø 5 bedrooms ø 3 bath/shower rooms (1 en suite) ø utility room ø cellar ø garaging ø allocated & visitor parking ø private & communal gardens ø EPC rating = F Guide £1.295 million Freehold

Buying or selling this spring? Talk to Savills.

P R O P E RT Y

The magnificent Murano House Hadley Wood

Banking on a spectacular spring with Fusion Residential Executives at award winning luxury developer and design house Fusion Residential are looking forward to a spectacular spring with interest in their only three available properties reaching unprecedented levels.

F

usion, winners at the 2011 UK Property Awards, is offering the prestigious and picturesque Pennywell Manor in Fortune Lane, Elstree, for £3.95m as well as the two remaining concierge-serviced homes at the Murano House apartments in Cockfosters Road, Hadley Wood.

The penthouse is available for £3 million and the first floor apartment at £1.65 million. They won’t be available for long as the other Murano homes were sold within 2 months of coming to market.

Fusion creates homes for people who like being in control and each Fusion property therefore boasts “Smart Home” technology delivered via wall inset iPads allowing remote programming and control of lighting, heating, sound, vision and security at the touch of a fingertip.

All Fusion properties boast amazing views.

Pennywell is situated in a quiet lane and offers views across rolling countryside. At Murano you overlook farm land to the front and the The Picturesque Pennywell Manor Elstree

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upmarket Hadley Wood Golf Course to the rear - the sixth green is just at the end of the garden.

All so rural, yet amazingly just 20 minutes from the centre of London. Fusion homes also boast incredible attention to detail – the properties are like finely cut gemstones, polished to perfection.

At Murano the penthouse offers the most generous accommodation boasting three double bedrooms, lounge, study, huge kitchen diner, utility room and wide open balcony which commands magnificent views across the golf course.

Behind the façade of a quaint country cottage, Pennywell is bright and expansive. Folding glass doors to the rear and side bring the outside in. The private gardens approach 1 acre, and in addition to the current accommodation there is also the ability to develop a further outbuilding to house a home office, games room or even a complete leisure complex. The wrap-around sun terrace of red cedar decking and giant Italian porcelain tiles allow you to make the most of the south facing garden, sunken water feature and stylish landscaping.

The master bedroom is huge with a walk in dressing room and fabulous en suite including free-standing Jacuzzi bath, wet room and flush his and hers hand-crafted basins. Two further bedrooms are adjoined by another bespoke bathroom and they too ooze the trademark Fusion aura of opulence.

The manor has five double bedrooms, three boasting hand crafted en suites, a gym, steam room and cinema / entertainment room with giant screen and Dolby surround sound. The kitchen will simply take your breath away.

Contact Debbie Williams on 01923 216535 to request a brochure or arrange a viewing, but be quick!

Bedroom at Master Bedroom at Murano House

3000

sq.ft.

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COCKFOSTERS ROAD – HADLEY WOOD

A 3 0 0 0 S Q . F T. L U X U R Y A PA R T M E N T O V E R L O O K I N G HADLEY WOOD GOLF COURSE WITH CONCIERGE

A L L E N Q U I R I E S P L E A S E C O N TA C T DEBBIE WILLIAMS - 01923 216 535

S TAT O N S - 0 2 0 8 4 4 0 9 7 9 7

fusionresidential.co.uk

UK

Final 4 Bedroom detached home now releaSed

Greenleas

Braugh

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Hertfo rd Village shire of the Year

Braughing • green end • Sg11 2Pg

Linden Homes Housebuilder of the Year 2012

Part exchange availaBle PluS StamP duty Paid**

Plot 9

An exclusive collection of just seventeen 4 and 5 bedroom detached family homes in the picturesque village of Braughing.

Plot 9 Cambridge

A10 A1 Royston

M11 A10

A1(M)

Buntingford

STEVENAGE

M11

• Only 28 Minutes from Bishops Stortford to Cambridge and 45 minutes to London Liverpool Street by rail.* • Close to the A10 and only 24 miles to Cambridge.

• Great family living with excellent local and independent schools.

BISHOP’S STORTFORD

A10

ReseRved Plot 11 (show home)R£825,000 eseRved Plot 7 £575,000

Plot 9 £649,950

ReseRved Plot 17 £995,000

ReseRved Plot 10 £795,000

Come and see why they are selling so well!

To arrange to view show home please call Gill Austin on:

01992 526753 lanesnewhomes.co.uk

or email: gill.austin@lanesnewhomes.co.uk Selling agents: Lanes 2 Market Street Hertford SG14 1BD

*Source: National Rail Enquiries. **Terms and conditions apply. On selected homes only. Offer not in conjunction with any other offer. Price correct at time of going to press. Photographs show a typical Linden Homes interior.

Nestled behind gates lies a magnificent new development of four ambassadorial houses built with passion, tradition and pride to the highest possible specification.

At Excelsior, we pride ourselves not only in the elegance and character of our buildings, but also on providing excellent craftsmanship and traditional construction. Our attention to detail and use of only the finest quality natural materials is the hallmark of Excelsior Homes.

Excelsior Homes™.

No compromises.

For all enquiries contact sole agent:

FALLOWFIELD STANMORE HA7 A magnificent, newly built, 6 bedroom detached family home , set back from the road in this lovely quiet cul- desac just off Stanmore Hill. Built to a high specification; the house offers spacious accommodation over 3 floors & has many features including underfloor heating, 10 year NHBC warranty, a loft room (with potential to provide 2 further bedrooms & a bathroom), a magnificent triple volume entrance hall & stunning Neil Lerner kitchen diner/family room.

ÂŁ2,350,000

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020 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com www.godfreyandbarr.com

HIGHCROFT TOTTERIDGE COMMON TOTTERIDGE N20

A rare opportunity to acquire a discreet mansion in excess of 10,000 sq ft situated in one of North London’s most prestigious locations. Set back behind security gates Highcroft offers the best of both worlds, the feel of country living

but with a London address and superb access to The City and West End. This magnificent property with a frontage of 260’ is Set in 2.7 acres of stunning landscaped gardens

and grounds with features including heated swimming pool, tennis court, staff accommodation, home cinema, gym, garaging for 8 cars and further off street parking for at least another 15.

PRICE ON APPLICATION

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pacious entrance hall S Drawing room Study Kitchen/breakfast room Dining room Large conservatory reception TV room/playroom Staff accommodation Garden room/den Double garage Single garage Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom and dressing room 9 further bedrooms Gym/bedroom 6 5 further bathrooms Staff annexe with separate entrance from main house arranged over 2 floors Utility room Staff kitchen Grounds of approximately half an acre Off-street parking for numerous cars Sole Agents

BIRCHES TOTTERIDGE VILLAGE N20

A rarely available, elegant and ambassadorial style detached Georgian style property (approx.

7800 Sq Ft ) set back from the road behind security gates.

Located in a prominent position in the heart of Totteridge Village set in grounds of approx. half an acre, with uninterrupted views to the front over Totteridge Green. The property has been well maintained & offers spacious accommodation over 3 floors including a separate staff wing with its own entrance.

ÂŁ3,950,000

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PARKSIDE MILL HILL NW7

ÂŁ1,125,000 A 5 bedroom detached family house in this popular turning located just off Wise Lane. The property offers 1787 sq ft of accommodation over 2 floors and benefits include 3 separate reception rooms, large utility area, garage and off street parking for 3/4 cars.

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THE ATRIUM T H E R I D G E WAY MILL HILL NW7

ÂŁ1,895,000 A magnificent large 3 bedroom 3 bathroom unique flat/house in this converted chapel built in 1888 in the heart of Mill Hill. Set back from the road and accessed through security gates this amazing home features a wealth of original features including stained glass windows, barrel vaulted ceilings and a number of stone arches. The stunning reception hall has a glazed ceiling allowing a wealth of natural light through to this wonderful space which leads to the spacious ground floor accommodation comprising a fully integrated kitchen, breakfast room, dining room and utility room with an additional two bedrooms, both with fitted wardrobes and ensuite bathrooms. From the kitchen is a staircase which lead down to the garden level out onto a private terrace and garden overlooking the stunning acres of communal gardens. On the first floor is an amazing double aspect reception room , office and guest cloakroom, while the entire top floor consists of a sumptuous master suite comprising bedroom, dressing room, ensuite bathroom and separate dressing area.The property also benefits from underfloor heating, Lutron lighting and parking with a remote operated car turntable.Located close to greenbelt open space yet within easy access to the shops, restaurants and transport facilities of Mill Hill as well as an excellent choice of local schooling.

LITTLEBERRY COURT MILL HILL NW7 A beautiful luxury 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom (one en suite) apartment in this exclusive secure gated development, in the heart of Mill Hill Village. Offered in immaculate decorative condition throughout, benefitting from a mezzanine galleried area, a large kitchen/diner, opening onto a private patio and communal landscaped gardens, high ceilings and reserved parking spaces for 2 cars.

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WHYTE EAGLES ARKLEY EN5

ÂŁ1,795,000 A unique chalet style detached house set behind security gates in this desirable location. Offering five bedrooms over two floors, the house is ideally proportioned for entertaining, boasting 3 reception rooms, kitchen/ diner, south facing garden with swimming pool, bar area and detached gymnasium with en-suite shower room.

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P R O P E RT Y

LAUREL WAY TOTTERIDGE, LONDON N20 S

et in this highly sought after location close to Totteridge Green is this stunning four bedroom detached family home which is arranged over three floors and has been professionally designed and refurbished to the highest standard and specification.

This wonderful property benefits from four bedrooms, three reception rooms, and two bathrooms/shower room and guest cloakroom.

Downstairs you will find a fully integrated kitchen/breakfast room with under floor heating which is open to a family area. This leads through to a gorgeous living room with a timber open vaulted ceiling with facing brickwork walls and door providing access to the stunning mature landscaped rear garden.

Upstairs there is a fantastic master bedroom with a mezzanine floor to provide a dressing area and en-suite bathroom. There is off street parking to the front and a single car garage. The gardens have been landscaped to provide many individual features with its own water stream complete with a bridge, raised flower beds to create private areas and a thatched tree house incorporating children’s play area.

Asking Price ÂŁ1,300,000 Freehold

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Features E ntrance hall R eception room K itchen/breakfast room H ome cinema/reception room D ownstairs WC U tility room G arage F irst floor landing

M aster bedroom with stairs to mezzanine floor with en suite bathroom, dressing room and rest area T hree further bedrooms F amily bathroom L andscaped rear garden O ff street parking

For more information about this property please contact Statons Totteridge office on 020 8445 3694 or email totteridge@statons.com.

P R O P E RT Y

ROYAL CONNAUGHT PARK

BUSHEY, HERTFORDSHIRE To redevelop listed buildings for domestic use is no mean feat, yet Comer Homes have restored and revitalized this classic building sympathetically whilst at the same time creating imaginative and modern living spaces...

S

et in approximately 100 acres of mature parkland, Royal Connaught Park is the epitome of contemporary luxury in perfect harmony with Victorian splendour. In 1899 Queen Victoria’s son, The Duke of Connaught, laid the foundation stone at the Royal Masonic School for Boys. Designed by the Victorian architects Gordon, Lowther & Gunton, this magnificent building was home to under privileged sons of masons for over 75 years until its closure in 1977, when it became the (US) International University – Europe, and remained so until Comer Homes purchased the site.

Driving through the main gates you are presented with an awe inspiring view of the clock tower – at the very heart of the development; A truly beautiful vista to come home to. Residents also benefit from a private, on-site health and fitness club including swimming pool, sauna, solarium and outdoor tennis courts. There is also a courtesy shuttle bus to and from the local stations and supermarkets, whilst 24 hour security at the gate and a concierge service provide an air of exclusivity and security.

The development comprises over 350 apartments and houses including conversions within the original buildings as well as newly built apartments. Properties range from 1 to 4 bedrooms and every home is uniquely designed, many with outdoor space and private terraces. The interiors are finished to the highest standard with integrated Miele appliances, luxury sanitary wear, one-touch lighting systems, heated stone flooring and much, much more.

You can still find the school motto ‘Audi, Vide, Tace’ in various parts of the property; Translated, the motto means ‘Hear, See, Be Silent’ which is rather fitting when you consider the peace and tranquillity you will experience at Royal Connaught Park despite its excellent transport links and relative close proximity to London.

Prices start from £355,000 - £815,000 for 1,2,3, and 4 bedroom apartments Marketing suite open 7 days a week 10am-5pm

For further information please contact Royal Connaught Park sales & marketing suite on 01923 222292 or Statons Radlett office on 01923 604321 www.royalconnaughtpark.com www.statons.com

MARCH2013 97

P R O P E RT Y

GEORGE PHILIPPOU MANAGING DIRECTOR AND TONY MARTI PROJECT MANAGER

BAYVIEW HOUSE UPLANDS PARK ROAD, ENFIELD Y

ogo Group and Statons are delighted to announce the release of this most prestigious collection of just 8 luxury 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses, with private gardens, large terraces, a concierge service and underground parking.

Yogo Group, who were 2012 winners of the ‘Premier Guarantee National Developer of the Year Award’, have been building in the North London area for over 12 years and are pioneers of creating unique homes which resonate in profound luxury and timeless interiors. They are also committed to being environmentally conscious in each development. Creativity, quality and beauty are designed into every one of these luxury apartments.

Bayview House has been meticulously designed, with no expense spared, to offer the ultimate signature of modern living, whilst maintaining uniqueness and character. The generously proportioned, light filled rooms have been interior designed down to the smallest detail with sophistication at the forefront and every space filled with specially selected or bespoke fixtures, fittings and finishing touches.

All apartments have either a private terrace or one of 3 private gardens which have been created by an appointed RHS winning designer. A concierge service, secure underground parking, fully fitted alarms and video entry system provide a high level of security and peace of mind. Bespoke kitchens, a selection of granite, 98 MARCH2013

Murano glass, Porcelanosa and Walnut caress the surfaces and a heavenly bathroom sanctuary, help to complete the picture.

Bayview House is located in one of the premier roads on the edge of a bustling town centre with its mainline station, boutiques, bars, cafes, and restaurants mixed with High Street brands, lovals shops and markets creating wonderful community atmosphere only minutes away from greenbelt countryside or you can be in Central London within 30 minutes.

Leisure facilities include David Lloyd and Virgin leisure clubs, local parks or Hadley Wood Golf Club.

The show apartment will be open on Saturdays & Sundays from 10am – 5pm or by appointment and prices range from £895,000 to £1,250,000.

For further information and a full colour brochure please conract Statons New Homes Showcase on 020 8441 9555 or visit www.statons.com or www.yogogroup.com

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